The Rise of the Creative Class Pt. 2 Reaction

Part 2 of Richard Florida’s Rise of the Creative Class is a more detailed account of the current working environment expected and demanded by the members of the “Creative Class”. It is a description of the work place trends that I have to look forward to when I enter the workforce. The trends are finding their way in to all professions, as the ways of doing things pragmatically like in the past is being replaced by doing things in a way that allow for interpretation and creativity. Unlike the factory workers, seen as a nobody who is just a part of the production machine, there as been a new emphasis put on the importance of the unique ideas that come from each individual.

This emphasis on creative thinking is leading to a change in people’s career preferences. In the past, people would pick jobs that paid the most, even if they didn’t like them. They would work at the same place, doing the same thing for their entire lives, even though they were miserable. Nowadays, people will pick the job they like, regardless of salary. Incentive is their ability to think creatively and be themselves. Also, people are no longer sticking to just one job. Florida calls it the “horizontal career ladder”. People are moving from project to project, working on what catches their interest until they get bored. I really like this trend. Gone are the days of stressing out because I can’t figure out what I want to be when I grow up. This change in professional thinking asks: “Who says I can’t be everything?” My interests change often, my job should be able to reflect these interests, as I’ll work harder for something I like. I look forward to a “real world” where I can pursue my passions.

Something I also look forward to about the working world that Florida describes is the change in the workplaces themselves. I’ve always feared that arts management wouldn’t work out and I would have to enter another type of business where I would be confined to a cubicle with no human interaction and strict working hours. I’m a very social person and I thrive off of discussing ideas with others. According to Florida, most businesses have found this to be true for most people. Instead of isolation, businesses are beginning to reformat to a more open environment, with a common area for discussion and interaction. Instead of cubicles, office workers can enjoy space and an arrangement designed to promote creative thinking.

Following the trend of promoting creativity and individuality, Florida also describes the anticipated change in work uniform. I’ve recently had trouble finding business formal and casual outfits for class presentations, meeting, and interviews that I like. Blazers, pencil skirts, and trousers just aren’t me. Florida says that many feel this way. The boring business clothes often limit creative thinkers’ ideas and creativity. Because of this, businesses are beginning to allow more casual work attire. While I acknowledge the professional appearance of a suit, I look forward to being able to present my ideas and plans while wearing something that reflects the person who came up with them.