Free tips · Stage craft · Tip 19 of 19
Yes, and: train with improv
The meeting just went off-script. Now what?
Improv trains exactly what engineers find hardest: thinking on your feet, listening properly and staying calm when the plan falls apart. The core rule is 'yes, and': accept what the other person offers, then build on it. You don't have to be funny. Take a beginner improv class; it's the fastest way to build range.
With a colleague, plan an imaginary project for two minutes where every line must start with 'Yes, and...'. Then do it again starting every line with 'Yes, but...'. Notice how differently the conversation moves.
- Improv
- Improvised theatre: scenes made up on the spot with no script. Classes train listening, accepting offers, quick thinking and comfort with uncertainty. Used by business schools and actors alike.
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