What makes for a successful collaboration and great ideas?

In my experience, it's an absence of ego and a respect for the idea. When the atmosphere is open and accepting, people drop their guards and ideas flow freely. Some ideas sound ridiculous. Some may be brilliant. Some inspire others. And all should be welcome. Because you never know when the big one will strike.

How to kill an idea
Perhaps the worst thing a collaborator can do is immediately reject the ideas of others. In an atmosphere of criticism and judgement, creative people tend to shut down and shut up. A potentially great idea may never be seen or heard.

Why does this happen? Some people need to feel superior and play favorites with their own ideas. Some have an almost godlike notion of their creative abilities. Others want to be sure they get "credit" for an idea and their name on award entries. Regardless of the reasons, ideas are lost when egos rule.

I've seen situations in which a client suggests an idea that is automatically rejected because it came from the client. How ridiculous is that? I know many clients who are highly creative and make valuable contributions. Learn to love clients.

How to nurture great ideas
Treat all people as equals. Forget about titles, positions at the table, claims to fame and names to shame. Listen, be open and let it happen.

It's nice when "my idea" is replaced by "the idea." And nobody cares where it came from.

© Miller McMillan