How Brainstorming Sessions Can Produce Key Results

: “There’s a reason people get their best ideas in the shower: The key to innovation is getting yourself in a zone where you are truly relaxed. So think office-antithesis. Get away from your desk. Even better, get out of the office. No editing. No judging. Crazy is good. Write it all down; evaluate later. Drink more coffee. Laugh. Be inclusive. Flex and build your creative muscle daily. Enjoy the creative high, and, yes, it’s addicting.”

: “We have a tendency to guard initial ideas, keeping them on paper only to find out much later that they do not work. As you test out an idea in a very raw form, it’s amazing what you will learn and how it will evolve into new ideas. Remember: Sometimes you just have to walk away, admit you’re stuck, and put the question deep in the subconscious of your brain. It’s funny how the solution pops into your mind when you least expect it.”

: “As event planners, we are always brainstorming new ideas for our clients. I like to light a scented candle, as it creates a relaxing environment. For offsite brainstorming meetings, I always host them at a fun, trendy restaurant along with some nice glasses of wine to help everyone unwind. It’s a no-brainer—we always come up with some great stuff!”

: “One of our favorite ways to brainstorm with clients is to ask everyone to write their ideas down on Post-Its rather than calling out randomly. Then everyone puts their ideas up on the whiteboard or wall. No names on the Post-Its—just the ideas. This helps create an environment where people are less concerned about having their ideas judged and where quieter people—who often have great ideas that get washed out by the louder voices—can ‘speak up.’”

: “I’m always sure to reiterate that all ideas are good ideas. It’s important that everyone feels very comfortable so that they’re more likely to contribute their thoughts.”