Brainstorming Essentials

Brainstorming is absolutely essential in many areas of life, and a tool that we use in PR quite often. Brainstorming occurs before a group of people start work on a project. It's a way for the group/team to collect different ideas to see what would work best for their project. Here are some tips to conducting a successful brainstorming session:

• Make sure to vocalize your ideas - Many times we don't say what we think because we're afraid that it's not good enough or no one will like it. Brainstorming sessions are a time to put every idea on the table, and then sift through what works and what doesn't. It's important for all of the members to participate by throwing all of their thoughts out there!

• Be willing to work through ideas - A lot of times in a brainstorming session, and idea is stretched and modified to fit the project. Going into a session with an open mind and a willingness to problem solve is a must. Be ready to put your thinking cap on!

• Plan to spend a good deal of time in the session - Sometimes it's hard to get going in a brainstorming session, but once ideas start flowing it's hard to stop. Keep in mind that sessions may take quite a bit of time (from getting ideas out, to refining and modifying them, etc.) and it's important for all group members to be there. If you know that you have a brainstorming session coming up, try to clear your schedule for that time period so you can be devoted to the session. Good things take time!

Brainstorming sessions are a great tool to use in the PR world. In my time at PRowl I have attended many brainstorming sessions. I have found that they produce great results, and give everyone a chance to get to know each other.

Does anyone have any additional tips/experiences? We'd love to hear about them!