Good leaders must continuously build proficiency in two key areas: the ability to listen and mindful collaboration. We can demonstrate and assess listening skills in the training environment but how does one teach collaboration? And once taught, what tools can we provide learners to foster further development outside the classroom?
Building Leadership Agility Through improvisation
Improvisation is not just for performers. You and I do it every day in real life. When improv is introduced as a learning opportunity in the classroom — with no consequences for mistakes — learners get to immerse themselves in situations and examine new ways to be truly present.
Kelly Leonard, author of critically-acclaimed “Yes And – How Improvisation Reverses “No, But” Thinking and Improves Creativity and Collaboration” (HarperCollins, 2015) calls this being fiercely present.
In this very short TedTalk, Mr. Leonard adeptly describes what improv is and how its use benefits people and organizations seeking to improve social skills and team dynamics.