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Here are five more tips on effective brainstorming. If you haven’t done so already be sure and check out yesterday’s post to get the first five.

1. Pick a number. Not only do you want to have the right people, but you want to have the right amount of people. To many people and no one can get a word in, to few people and you’re not able to create synergy. There is no magic number, but I find 4-6 people work best. Although you can start with as few as two.
2. Stay positive. Negativity kills creativity. If someone throws out an idea you consider to be “bad” then learn to respond in a positive way. Learn how to navigate around those ideas and keep rolling. Not every idea will be a keeper, but sometimes “bad” ideas inspire “good” ideas.
3. Don’t take it personal. If someone doesn’t like your idea or it doesn’t get used don’t take it personal. It’s okay to stand up for what you believe in, but ultimately the decision should be what is best for the organization. It’s important to keep in mind that the objective for the meeting is about finding the best solution.
4. Quantity of ideas will lead to quality of ideas. Don’t stay quiet because you think your idea isn’t the best. Ideas are a numbers game. The more ideas you get out there in the open the greater your chances one will stick. Don’t forget, sometimes “bad” ideas inspire “good” ones.
5. Assign tasks at the end of the meeting. Before the meeting ends it is important to  put legs to your ideas. Who’s going to make those calls or do the research? Not everyone will leave with an assignment, but someone should. Even if that someone is you.

If you have enjoyed this post be sure and check back soon. I’ll be talking a lot more about creativity, leadership and other related topics.