I was pleasantly surprised to see the value of applying improv skills to the workplace and our everyday lives. Angela Prestil recently presented “Using Improv Skills to Boost Creativity” at Speakers Helping Speakers, a quarterly virtual event. Angela taught us that the “yes and…” technique helps us accept someone else’s reality and move the conversation forward. This is the opposite of a “no, but” that kills ideas and energy.
Angela encouraged the group to try to be true and not worry about being funny. When we were true to the moment and true to the scenario, we still had plenty of laughs. When you live in the moment and stop thinking about what you’ll say next, powerful things happen.
When you’re at work, try adding “yes and…” when someone presents an idea. This validates and thanks them for their contribution. Angela tells us when this becomes a standard part of the vernacular, you’ll hear people at work say, “I’m going to yes and that.” Adding on to someone’s thought encourages the innovation and positivity we all need right now.
After our “yes and” activity, Angela taught us “One Word Story.” This activity is just what it sounds like; we built stories one word at a time. This technique forced us to slow down, listen, and stay present. Wouldn’t it be nice if we all did that at work?
Don’t miss the valuable lessons we’ll learn in our next Speakers Helping Speakers session. Amanda Zieba will present “CANVA Create Engaging Social Media Posts Faster.”