Brainstorming sessions. They’re supposed to ignite creativity and bring out new ideas, right?
In theory, it makes sense. For many, gathering with the team, with a whiteboard and markers, is a blast. The collective focus and the pressure to generate breakthroughs sounds fun.
But for others, particularly the more introverted geniuses, these sessions have always been uncomfortable at best. Worst case, they actually stifle creativity. And they can make some feel out of place if they don’t love it or do it as well as the others.
Your team might feel the same way. So, how do you make sure everyone is included generating ideas? The true power of brainstorming lies in its inclusivity.
In this episode, you’ll hear how to structure brainstorming so every team member can contribute at their best.
The Flaw in Traditional Brainstorming
Research shows traditional brainstorming might not be as effective as once believed, and it doesn’t work equally well for everyone. A study in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found individuals brainstorming alone produced more ideas than groups. They identified three main reasons for this:
- Social loafing: Reduced effort that happens in groups.
- Evaluation apprehension: Fear of being judged.
- Production blocking: Waiting for your turn to speak disrupts thought flow.
These factors hinder group creativity. So, how can you harness your team’s true potential and accommodate different thinking styles?
Insight is Born in Relaxation
Consider your last breakthrough idea. Did it happen during a structured meeting with lots of people talking around you? Or was it in a moment of relaxation?
When we’re in a casual state of non-focus, like doing a simple motor task, or when the head hits the pillow, insight comes more easily. My clients often hear me say I’ve never had a good idea while sitting at my desk.
Many people have their best ideas while out walking or taking a shower. Casual moments let our minds wander and form connections.
Different Personalities and Brainstorming
For people who’ve got a natural inclination toward creativity, brainstorming can be fun and productive. Those who thrive in imagination often excel during brainstorming sessions. Some people have an innate ability to navigate and contribute effectively in these types of dynamic environments.
Others prefer a structured, methodical or more harmonious approach for creativity. Brainstorming in a group isn’t likely their forte. They often excel in evaluating and refining ideas. It’s not unusual for operations teams to be filled with this type of person. And you need them when it comes to bringing those innovative ideas to life. They’ve got a lot of intel that can make or break the success of these ideas.
It’s time to recognize these differences within your team and tailor your approach to fit their strengths.
Actionable Strategies for Ops Teams
If your team doesn’t love brainstorming sessions, here’s how to set them up for success.
1. Pose Open-Ended Questions
- Go beyond the meeting room and pose questions via email or casual chat platforms.
- Allow time for thought and give them a few days for responses so ideas can be well-considered.
- Gather ideas and discuss them in a low-pressure setting.
2. Create a Culture of Casual Idea Generation
- Encourage unstructured downtime and relaxing activities, where great ideas often surface.
- Create a collaborative space in a shared document for team members to jot down spontaneous ideas.
- Integrate these organic ideas in regular meetings, giving them the attention they deserve.
3. Blend Individual Reflection with Group Discussion
- Designate reflection time for all to think independently, free from distractions.
- Facilitate a structured sharing session where people can present their thoughts.
- Combine the best ideas into actionable strategies.
Conclusion: Embrace Diverse Thinking Styles
To get the most out of brainstorming, you need to have a balanced and diverse team that leverages the strengths of different perspectives.
Dive in and get to know the unique inclinations and challenges of your team to create an inclusive culture leads to genuine innovation.
Let go of traditional brainstorming and embrace diverse thinking styles. Innovation often happens in unexpected, quiet moments where you’re free to roam.
You’ve learned how to enhance creativity within your team, but creativity without action is like a car without fuel: It won’t take you anywhere. To truly set your team up for success, you need to close the gap between ideation and execution. In Episode 29, “Building a Culture of Decisiveness in Your Ops Team,” you can hear how empower your team to make decisions quickly and effectively. Visit yourfuturerealized.com/29 to listen in.
Today I’ll leave you with this question: How will you create an inclusive idea-generation process this week?
You can’t stop the chaos, but you can change the game.
Reference: Diehl, M., & Stroebe, W. (1987). Productivity loss in brainstorming groups: Toward the solution of a riddle. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 53(3), 497-509.
