Experts agree: Improv is good for business
In today’s evolving workplace, fostering creativity, collaboration, and adaptability is key to building successful teams. Increasingly, businesses are turning to improv as a powerful tool for team building and leadership development. The evidence is compelling, with numerous reputable sources highlighting the effectiveness of improv in the business world.
From Forbes: "Why Improv Training is Great Business Training"
“How does improv training improve communication? …Although they improvise, the process draws on time-honored principles—the first among them being ‘yes, and.’ Simply put, ‘yes, and’ means performers accept whatever their scene partners do or say as part of the reality of the scene and then build on it with their own contributions. They must be present in the moment, listening carefully, and contributing freely. These skills turn out to be particularly useful in workplaces that rely on adaptability.”
From Harvard Business Review: "Using Improv to Unite Your Team"
“In improv comedy, whether people are building a scene or telling a story, everyone has a chance to talk. Members’ contributions are welcomed and valued, and participants collaborate and support one another as they work toward a common goal. Getting everyone involved in this way is important: When we discuss each other’s ideas and perspectives, we learn from them, and our decisions improve. Plus, the more we feel that others value our contributions, the more likely we are to share our ideas.”
From CNN: "Why Every Boss Should Take an Improv Class"
“So much about leadership isn’t about the answer, but asking the right questions. [The improv] session really gets folks comfortable with not having all the answers, being able to think on the fly, and also stopping to listen to better understand.” “A broad range of industries, including tech, health care, retail, and law firms, are embracing improv.”
From Medium: "Applying Improv Comedy to Creating Positive Business Culture"
“For positive business culture, as leaders, if we’re having fun, we inspire fun with our teams. When people are smiling and laughing, they’re listening and engaged. Improv is fun, and comedy is created when we do the unusual thing. In business, sometimes the best decision isn’t the most obvious one. With improv, we can try new things in a safe and supportive environment, encouraging us to make new choices, break old patterns, and prepare ourselves to deal with whatever happens.”
From Financial Management: "How an Improv Class Can Help Develop Business Skills"
“The most important skill needed in improv is listening. …Someone who is not listening or trying to deliver their own jokes cuts off the scene. Translated into a business context, listening skills are vital to a business-partnering approach. Only by listening can you understand the other person's goals and objectives, and from there help them make decisions and warn them of any pitfalls.”
How Windhaus Improv Can Help Your Team Thrive
At Windhaus Improv, we’re passionate about helping teams unlock their full potential through the power of applied improvisation. Here’s what you can expect when you choose to work with us:
Tailored Experience: Our sessions are customized to meet the specific needs and dynamics of your team. Whether your goal is to enhance communication, boost morale, or foster creativity, our experienced facilitators will design a workshop that’s engaging and effective.
Interactive Learning: Step out of your comfort zone and into the world of improv! Our workshops are highly interactive, offering hands-on exercises that focus on key principles such as active listening, spontaneity, and embracing failure. You’ll be surprised at how quickly your team can grow and connect through these fun activities.
Immediate Impact: Even in just 30 minutes, you’ll see a noticeable improvement in your team’s dynamics. From increased creativity to stronger collaboration, our sessions leave participants feeling energized and inspired.
Feedback Opportunity: After the workshop, we encourage you to share your thoughts and impressions. Your feedback is crucial as we strive to continually refine and tailor our offerings to better serve your team’s needs.
Improv isn’t just a fun activity—it’s a strategic investment in your team’s growth and success. Let Windhaus Improv help you build a more connected, creative, and resilient workplace.