Business meetings are often seen as a necessary evil in the corporate world. They can be boring, unproductive, and feel like a waste of time for many employees. However, there is a growing trend in the business world that is shaking up the traditional meeting format: improv.
Improv, short for improvisation, is a form of live theatre in which the plot, characters, and dialogue are created in the moment. It relies heavily on the performers’ ability to think quickly, listen actively, and collaborate effectively. These skills are not only essential for a successful improv performance, but they can also be incredibly beneficial in the world of business.
One company that is using improv to transform meetings and presentations in the business world is Beyond Scripted. Founded by improv performer and business coach Sandra Peterson, Beyond Scripted offers interactive workshops and training sessions that incorporate improvisational techniques to help companies improve communication, collaboration, and creativity in the workplace.
One of the key principles of improv that Beyond Scripted focuses on is the concept of “yes, and.” This means that instead of shutting down someone else’s ideas or contributions, team members should always respond with a “yes, and” to build on and support each other’s ideas. This mentality fosters a positive and collaborative environment where everyone feels valued and heard.
Beyond Scripted also emphasizes the importance of active listening in improv. In a business meeting or presentation, it can be easy to tune out or think about what you’re going to say next. However, by actively listening to others and being fully present in the moment, employees can better understand each other’s perspectives, build stronger relationships, and come up with more creative solutions.
In addition, improv encourages employees to take risks and step out of their comfort zones. By embracing failure as a natural part of the creative process, employees can feel more empowered to share their ideas, try new things, and push the boundaries of what is possible. This mentality of experimentation and innovation can lead to breakthroughs in problem-solving and decision-making within the organization.
Overall, improv can be a powerful tool for transforming meetings and presentations in the business world. By incorporating the principles of improv, such as “yes, and,” active listening, and embracing failure, companies can foster a more collaborative, creative, and engaging work environment. Beyond Scripted is leading the charge in this movement, helping companies unlock their full potential and achieve greater success in the fast-paced world of business.
