In one of my previous videos, I suggested using silent brainstorming to make meetings more inclusive. Someone commented on that video saying silent brainstorms are too individualistic and not true teamwork.
Yes, brainstorming is a group activity. However, when everyone openly starts talking in a brainstorm, especially in large groups – ideas can overlap. People tend to paraphrase others’ thoughts or conform and groupthink.
A SILENT BRAINSTORM can help avoid such nonsense.
Step 1. Everyone individually ideates, writes down their ideas, and then verbally presents them so there’s no duplication, credit stealing, or groupthink.
Step 2. Team members actively listen to each other’s unique ideas and THEN start discussions to build upon them for a better collective solution.
Silent brainstorming is not about individually reaching conclusions. It’s about being inclusive and ensuring everyone’s voice is heard fairly. Now, that’s true teamwork.
