8 Ways to Encourage Creativity at Your Next Team Brainstorm

When you are meeting face-to-face with your team, working together to solve problems or develop new ideas, it is essential for everyone to be engaged and in a productive environment. Here are eight ways you can drive creativity in your next team brainstorm: 

1. Choose a Naturally Creative Environment

There is a wide selection of beautifully designed meeting rooms in the Convene portfolio of brands, which includes etc.venues, that are purpose-built specifically for corporate meetings and events to ensure creativity will flourish. 

2. Start Writing and Drawing

Every meeting room within the Convene portfolio of brands has space to write and draw, such as a whiteboard or a flipchart. Use these tools to your advantage and write everything down - you can always refine and edit later.

3. Change the Room Set-up

A more formal meeting room setup, such a sa boardroom or a classroom, may result in more formal interactions, which is why it is important to change it up sometimes. A campfire session, where chairs and couches are arranged in a casual cluster, is perfect for stimulating creative ideas. You can find inspiration for  interactive meeting sessions here. 

4. Use Breakout Areas and Lounges

A change of scenery can help stimulate the mind. The break-out spaces and lounges in Convene and etc.venues locations are designed to encourage dialogue and collaboration. They are a creative backdrop that include comfortable seating, unique art, Nourish snack bars, and coffee points. Get your team to grab a drink and relax for a few minutes. These casual connection times are often when great ideas present themselves. 

5. Take a Stroll

It doesn’t matter where you go, but a short walk around the block or a longer walk to a local landmark can also help clear the mind. Since all Convene and etc.venues locations are centrally located in cities, your creativity can be inspired by walking near iconic buildings and historic architecture.

6. Have a Healthy Breakfast

If you’re hosting a morning meeting, our friendly team will greet you with a smile and guide you to your morning breakfast to nourish your mind for the day ahead. Healthy breakfast options such as eggs, sausage, bacon, smoothies, chia pudding, yoghurt, and fruit provide protein and nourishment to energize you and your guests for a productive day of brainstorming and creativity.  

7. Don’t Get Distracted

Brainstorming sessions work best when your team is free from distractions. Encourage everyone to put their phones on “Do Not Disturb” mode, close their laptops, and be present for the duration of the meeting. 

8. Take in Our Artwork

The art on the walls Convene and etc.venues is all chosen with intention. The artwork is meant to serve as conversation starters. We know that great art can lift people and inspire them, which allowing our minds to wander and escape – it’s healthy and recharges our system. This is why we are extra thoughtful about what goes on our walls.