Having a process also allows you to think of ideas that may not be easily apparent. What’s one thing you do to help come up with new ideas? How can you incorporate this into a repeatable framework (for yourself as well as those you collaborate with)?
I tend to look at pictures or rest to think of new ideas. I can repeat by gather raw materials with images and bold words on a particular subject matter. I would out first and rest afterawards.
To help me come up with new ideas, I most of the times, read books related to the idea that I want to come up with. Also, when everywhere seems void, I take a stroll/walk sometimes…
I always come with some good pitches before brainstorming the whole structure of the content. Sometimes, I use references as a guide to help ideas make more sense. If I have burn outs with exceeded productivity time, I would immediately go out and stroll to refresh my mind and soul. It has that kind of mentaity to achieve the deadline.
I tend to overload my head with ideas at first, however researching the topic, or watching videos related to what I am thinking about, helps me limit down my thoughts, and gain a good connection as to what I want to do with my ideas. To freshen up my headspace I like to sit outside by the lake or any body of water.
I tend to look at pictures, videos, and blogs about a certain topic. Get visual ideas from the internet mainly from social media or Pinterest. After my brain gets loaded, I take a rest and think about it but not as much as the start. I start to combine and form elements which helps in processing the right ideas.
I’ve used Melanie Deziels framework for creating content ideas for quite some time. And it works well:)
That said, Carla Johnson JUST released a new book with an even more extensive framework and I am eager to finish the book and test the framework. Carla’s framework is based on thorough research and is tested in organisations all over the World.
I start by looking at what is relevant to the industry and the user. then I start research by reading through books, podcasts, and blogs to understand the context of the topic I want to write around. Then I start scrapping the body copy. Once I am sure of the content, which includes testimonials, quotes, and facts around the topic, I present it to a colleague who can help me make it more grounded. Then I write the introduction and conclusion and repeat the same. Once everything checks out, I publish it on the relevant sites where the users can rad it without any hassle.
I tend to rest, sleep or make my subconscious mind do the thinking. The moment an idea comes up, I run to get a book & pen to jot it down or simply draft it on my mobile.
I love the idea of having a brainstorm session with other member of my team who aren’t part of the content process day in and day out to get some fresh ideas.
My creative process always begins with images, consuming images that my buyer persona may like, comparing my brainstorming concepts, consulting with the team in case of doubts and without being afraid of mistakes.
Most of the time, I read to gain insights into what I’m creating next. I also take time to read my past work, and see if there are possible sequels I can create to drive my points home.
Then, I write down these ideas, and make research. Sometimes during the research, I’m able to see how to better refine the ideas, or discard it totally for a greater idea.