Brainstorming is essential in any workplace environment. However, there is a difference between effective brainstorming and wasting time.
Here are some tips we have come up with to get your creative juices going for your next assignment you have. No matter if it is a large campaign or a blog, these tips will help you stay on track when trying to think of the next big, creative idea.
Focus is Key
When trying to think of the next new idea, focus on your client and their brand. What is your client trying to do? Narrow your thoughts and ideas down to something that is within your client’s ideals and values. Make sure while brainstorming, you are not browsing irrelevant websites or blogs.
Invite Others to Brainstorm
Like they always say “two brains are better than one.”
Set up a meeting and ask other colleagues to bring their input and ideas into the mix. Your colleague sitting next to you may just have a brilliant idea that you might not have thought of before the meeting. When at a brainstorm session, really take the time to listen. If you listen your colleagues, you also might get your own ideas from their thoughts and suggestions. Last, play devil’s advocate. Challenge each other’s thoughts, ideas, questions, and concerns. Your new idea just may spring out of it.
Don’t be Negative
There is never a “bad” or “wrong” idea. Don’t underestimate your ideas and do not think any idea is a silly or unrealistic. This especially applies when in a group brainstorming session. The last thing you want to do is make someone feel intimidated or hesitant to speak up and throw out a new idea.
“There’s a Time and Place for Everything”
Like the saying goes, there is a time and place for brainstorming. Try moving to an outside location, or somewhere you feel inspired to do your brainstorming. It is important to feel comfortable and relaxed when trying to think of the next new idea you have for your client. It is okay if you are stuck or out of ideas for the time being. Keep a pad and pencil with you at all times, for you never know when you’ll feel inspired.
Read and Get on Pinterest
We find some of our best ideas when feeling inspired by other things we read, hear or see. At The Brandon Agency, a lot of our originalists keep a Pinterest page where they not only display their work, but also look at pictures and ideas that keep their creative juices going. Additionally, visit websites, read books and follow blogs. It isn’t news that the more you read, the more you know. Stay current with the news to draw inspiration and you may discover a new revelation.
Role-playing
Think of your audience. Who is going to read your press release? What demographic are you trying to target? These questions are so simple, yet many of us forget to think of these things. Just because you think it is a great idea, will your audience think it is, too? Put yourself in the shoes of the person you are trying to target. After all, they are the ones you are trying to influence and reach.
We hope these tips can help you whether your project is large or small. Let us know your thoughts— How do you like to brainstorm?