Improv in the Workplace: Work Less and Communicate More

While most associate improv with comedy clubs, it is also an invaluable skill for professionals. Improv teaches us to work collaboratively with others, builds emotional intelligence, and fosters effective communication. From the stage to the boardroom, these skills directly translate to the development of more efficient and creative teams.

A pitch to a client or a team meeting is improvisation: you listen to your audience and react accordingly. The age-old improv concept of “yes and” is a powerful tool, as we can accept what our colleagues and managers share but also build upon those ideas. Improv helps us think on our feet and handle unexpected twists in professional interactions.

Many top business schools have added impov to their core curriculum, recognizing the value of preparing the modern employee to adapt to our rapidly changing professional landscape. However, professionals very rarely have the opportunity to learn the benefits of improv.

If you’re interested in exploring the benefits of improv, consider the University of Denver’s upcoming training Applied Improv: “Yes, and” in the Workplace. This program is for professionals looking to break the mold of stagnant ideation. Through a series of experiential and immersive classes, participants will be exposed to the core methodologies of ExperienceYes, an innovation company that utilizes the four main rules of improvisation: 1. Yes, AND…, 2. Listen with intent to SERVE 3. Support your teammates AT ALL COSTS and 4. Trust your instincts

Learn the benefits of a “Yes, and” culture and employ these methods for agile thinking, innovation, and communication. The four-session course takes place: Mondays, April 29, May 6, 13, and 20, 2019 at the University of Denver. More information and registration: https://ucollege.du.edu/improv.