Point taken. Any time you find yourself in a meeting, discussion or brainstorming session keep the following points in mind. When used correctly, counter points can diffuse an escalating situation and place the focus back on progress. Preparedness is key in using counter points, if you aren't prepared you've already lost.

Preapre Your Counter Points

• Research Early - Complex topics require focused thinking time. The earlier you start researching additional information on the topic, the more time you have to find connections and opportunities.
• Read and Reread - Review all documentation ahead of time. Take care to read and reread material to ensure you have a good understanding of the material and the context.
• Capture Questions - As you research and read you may find yourself asking questions. Write down all questions as you think of them. You may find some questions answer themselves after futher reading or research. Remaining questions should be discussed with the rest of the group.
• Prespective Shift - Think about the topic from the perspective of a different demographic, industry or physical location. Does this change how you viewing the topic? Capture your thoughts and keep them with your questions.
• Relay Feedback - Often this is called "Constructive Criticism". Collabrative Criticism is potentially a more accurate term. All involved should be adding criticism to the discussion even the presenter (a well prepared presenter knows the shortcomings and weaknesses in their own material, or should). When giving feedback you should always give a counter point for your criticism. This gets to giving reasons and explanations for not liking or not agreeing with the information presented while providing ideas for improvement (don't let yourself or team members settle for, "I don't like it").

Counter Points provide a great way to help each other and the product improve. Opinions will differ but aligning viable alternatives and factual statistics with your opinion, you can add a more complete picture for others to appreciate and consider.

Show your engagement for your next discussion, meeting or brainstorming session by showing up well prepared with counter points.