From the Technical Know-How to the Free Flow of Ideas: Exploring the Effects of Leader, Peer, and Team Communication on Employee Creativity

Abstract

Creativity is the lifeblood of a successful organization, as creative employees drive companies to be innovative and competitive. While studies have examined how leaders foster creativity, researchers have overlooked how communication between workgroup peers and teams cultivate creative output. Interviews were conducted to determine the effects of leader, peer, and team communication on employee creativity within the national video game industry. Results indicate communication exchanges uniquely influence employee creativity, with peer associations being most crucial. Informal mentoring, or “creativity coaches,” were vital lifelines within creatively driven organizations. Additional findings highlight the importance of structure, support, and trust in creatively supportive organizations.

Keywords:

• Contextualized Workgroup
• Creativity
• Leadership
• Organizational Communication
• Workgroup Relationships