Workshop wisdom: 90 minutes to alignment

"We managed to get more aligned in 90 minutes than in the 18 months previous" -  insights from a decade of running workshops that drive alignment and momentum.

Everyone is busy, and not all meetings are created equal—some are a waste of time, while others can truly move the needle.

Even the word "workshop" might get an eye roll. Yet, I kick off every major brand messaging, business strategy, or campaign project with one.

Recently, a client told me, "We managed to get more aligned in 90 minutes than in the 18 months previous." That moment perfectly captures why these collaborative workshops are at the heart of my approach.

In this article, I'll share insights from a decade of running engaging, effective workshops that drive alignment and momentum—and give you a glimpse of what to expect from a Pink Mingo strategy session.

An open mind, and lots of prep

To start with, I don't believe workshop participants should be burdened with hours of prep. The way I see it is you're here because you've been chosen for your opinions and subject matter expertise, and you are likely very busy—so just bring an open mind.

If I'm facilitating online, I encourage participants to switch off their emails and perhaps move to a different part of their office - and for in person, I choose light, bright spaces with great coffee!

I take care of the heavy lifting on the prep side, whether that means diving into industry trends, analysing your client data, or preparing prompts for the trickier parts of the session. This way, the workshop stays focused, effective, and tight, allowing you to contribute fully without any extra hassle.

Aligning around goals and vision

A Pink Mingo workshop will kick off by establishing a clear picture of where you’re headed. This is an opportunity to hold a mirror up to the organisation, test internal assumptions, and get really aligned.

It also ensures that the output of the workshop - and my subsequent work - drives in the right direction. Every element of the strategy, every suggested tactic, every piece of messaging will support your overarching objectives.

Why you win

This second workshop chapter is all about uncovering your unique 'unfair advantage' - the reason why you win against your competitors and what makes your brand irreplaceable in the eyes of your target clients.

The flip side to that is understanding any barriers in the way, any potential challenges and preconceptions that need to be addressed. This honest appraisal is key to building business strategy and brand messaging that is both aspirational and authentic.

Your dream client

This part of the workshop is all about the customer, and obsessing over the 'transformational client' - that dream deal, enterprise agreement, target segment or revenue multiplier that will make the difference.

This ensures brand messaging and campaign concepts speak directly to the different needs, desires, and challenges of your target clients.

Tactics and tone

Depending on the project, we then explore your unique tone of voice - what feels like you, what doesn't - and dive into potential campaign tactics and approach.

Final thought

These workshops are more than just another meeting—they’re a strategic investment in your brand’s future.

They’re the first step to rapidly aligning your team, refining your narrative, and setting the stage for brand work that feels true to your organisation—while elevating everything you’ve done before. This method is not only efficient but also incredibly effective in creating cohesive, impactful outputs.

If you’re ready to see how Pink Mingo’s approach can transform your brand messaging and drive success, it starts with a workshop! Get in touch.

Pink Mingo workshops are a strategic investment in your brand’s future.