Team Creativity in the Organization: Overcoming Work Stress to attain Competitive Advantage in the Retail Industry

Abstract

For businesses to succeed in contemporary rapid and dynamic business environment, keeping a competitive advantage is essential. Team creativity and job stress are two important variables that can greatly affect competitive advantage. Team creativity refers to the ability of teams to generate innovative ideas, solve complex problems, and think outside the box. When teams possess high levels of creativity, they can develop unique products, services, and strategies that differentiate them from competitors. This creativity enables organizations to adapt to market changes, identify new opportunities, and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving environment. On the other hand, work stress can have both positive and negative effects on competitive advantage. Moderate levels of stress can motivate individuals and teams to perform at their best, stimulating creativity and innovation. However, excessive and chronic work stress can hinder creative thinking, impede collaboration, and lead to burnout. When employees are overwhelmed by stress, their cognitive abilities, decision-making skills, and overall performance may be compromised, negatively impacting competitive advantage. To leverage the positive impact of team creativity and mitigate the negative effects of work stress, organizations must create a supportive and empowering work environment. Providing resources, training, and encouragement for creative thinking can foster innovation within teams. Additionally, implementing strategies to manage work stress, such as promoting work-life balance, providing adequate support systems, and fostering a positive organizational culture, can help employees cope effectively and maintain their creative capabilities.