Creativity in Marketing: A #CMWorld Chat with Allen Gannett

When writer’s block hits and I feel like my life lacks imagination and originality, I often mumble, “I’m just not a creative person.” I would think of creativity as something geniuses are born with. But Allen Gannett would beg to differ.

Allen is CEO and founder of TrackMaven and author of The Creative Curve, due out June 12. In his book, Allen shares insights into creativity, including research supporting the idea of “natural-born talent” as a myth. During a recent #CMWorld Twitter chat, Allen challenged us to think differently about creativity. Below are highlights of that chat.

In what ways can you train yourself to be more creative? Are there methods or exercises that can be done? How can you learn to be OK being a little uncomfortable?

A2: Set aside the time to do drawing and writing exercises coupled with creative brainstorming sessions. Music is also a great way to get the juices flowing. Find out ways to push yourself to think outside the box and make the creative process second nature! #CMWorld pic.twitter.com/2zcXvIMoEq

— Chris Klein (@Chrisssklein) June 5, 2018

A2: I am a very visual person. Anything I see in magazines, flyers, books, etc. that inspires me I rip out and put into a binder. This way when I need a creativity boost, I can refer back to something! #cmworld pic.twitter.com/AKojdgMSTs

— Kari Kennedy (@Karikennedy_28) June 5, 2018

A2 Set time to be creative. Big fan of journaling. Still working on how to allow myself to be uncomfortable. LOL #cmworld

— jasgraff (@jasgraff) June 5, 2018

A2: Write ten ideas a day to address a different question or problem, whether it’s business related or for fun. Before you know it the James Altucher method will make you realize there’s no challenge where you can’t come up with at least 10 responses. #CMWorld

— Mark Alves (@markalves) June 5, 2018

A2: Dedicate time towards it. I also read different genre, taking those new ideas and incorporating into my repertoire. #CMWorld https://t.co/qL4KLN1v6r

— Carlarjenkins (@carlarjenkins) June 5, 2018

Some may argue certain industries or jobs don’t require or allow for creativity. Or that particular organizations don’t encourage it. How can we shift this mindset?

A3: Well interestingly, I think the industries that are “not creative” are actually the industries where creatvitiy can be the biggest career boost. Being creative at Google isn’t all that uniqie. Being creative at an insurance company, now that is unique value! #CMworld

— Allen Gannett (@Allen) June 5, 2018

A3: There is not a single job on earth that doesn’t require creativity! I think we need to reinforce the idea that creativity isn’t limited to just “artistic” endeavors but can be applied to problem-solving and strategy as well. #CMWorld pic.twitter.com/84Iln6Ua8k

— Brafton (@Brafton) June 5, 2018

A3) I believe that when many people hear the word “creativity”, they automatically think the arts or some kind of visual design. Creativity is the process of discovering a new way of doing things. #CMWorld

— Sonia Harris (@harrisonia) June 5, 2018

A3: Creativity is simply creating a connection between things that may not have been connected before. Doesn’t have to be art or science. #CMworld

— Mike Myers 🤠 (@mikemyers614) June 5, 2018

Want to learn more about creativity and how to cultivate? Check out our Twitter Moment. Craving more? Grab a copy of Allen’s book, The Creative Curve.

To be inspired and get more practical insight, attend Content Marketing World 2018. Industry leaders like Allen will be there, and we hope you will be too. Sign up now with code SM100 and get $100 off at checkout.