Founder and Chief Culture Officer of Ideal Outcomes, Inc. Author of the new book Culture Ignited: 5 Disciplines for Adaptive Leadership.
Improvisational comedy was happening on a stage, but the venue was not the famous Comedy Store in Hollywood; it was a beautiful poolside deck overlooking the sparkling waters of St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands. And the talent on stage was not headline performers who have audiences rolling in the aisles every night, but members of my team.
We were all taking part in a day of improvisational comedy as part of a team-building exercise. We had a blast—and learned a lot.
My team members rose to the occasion and performed a hilarious sketch, thinking on their feet and changing the storyline. The word melodramatic doesn’t begin to cover it. Some of the over-the-top contributions had us all in fits of laughter. And while it was certainly entertaining, the benefits of exploring improv for business hit home with me.
Collaboration
In one exercise, participants had to spontaneously create a story and develop their own twists and turns, which in this instance meant working together to produce an ever-more outrageous plot—like a soap opera on steroids. But this creative teamwork exemplifies how the workplace can become more productive and creative when there is such a spirit of cooperation.
Creativity
The spontaneity of improv has the ability to inspire creative thinking that has to be seen to be believed. When you’re on the spot and you don’t have time to sit and reflect, the human brain is capable of wild flights of imagination. Taken into a business context, the ability to conjure up ideas that might seem risky and far-fetched can lead to business breakthroughs.
Communication
I find that when you’re involved in this kind of activity you have to listen carefully to what the person before you has said and respond immediately. It involves visual as well as verbal communication. It’s a skill that’s essential in business settings in order to avoid misunderstandings. Participating in improv can sharpen this skill as you have to clearly understand what the other person has related so you can take that information and add your own spin.
Confidence
Improv pushes you outside of your comfort zone, making you do something that’s far removed from your daily activities. You’re encouraged to take risks without any judgment from your colleagues. The result is that individuals are likely to develop greater self-confidence, something that is especially valuable when you have to make presentations or interact with the public. In our scenario, my top trainers performed as admirably as I would expect. But what was truly impressive was when “behind the scenes” team members stepped up to the plate.
Comedy
Laughter is the best medicine. It can break down barriers and enhance relationships at an individual level and within the company. It helps stimulate a healthy workplace culture. Going through an improv exercise proves to team members the value of a good belly laugh. Sharing funny experiences, or taking part in lighthearted banter, can create a sense of togetherness and a more harmonious work atmosphere.
Celebrate Failure
The very nature of improv is that humor often derives from mistakes made by the participants. Mistakes are not only expected but also celebrated. The message in business is that failure when it happens should be embraced as a learning opportunity. Overcoming the fear of failure is essential for business growth. In other words, not playing it safe can lead to major corporate developments.
Final Thoughts
Our day of improv and going through the multiple exercises was a wonderful team-bonding exercise. Besides being a lot of fun, it validated how well we work together as a group. It’s an activity from which any leadership team can benefit in enhancing workplace culture. I encourage you to give it a try.
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