Approaching Improv

Communication and Connection in Business and Beyond

De: Caitlin Drago

Narrado por: Caitlin Drago

We all like to think of ourselves as active listeners, open to considering another’s perspective in order to successfully collaborate toward shared goals.

Why, then, when we look around, do we see countless examples crying out to the contrary? Why do we so often find ourselves struggling to effectively communicate at work, at home, or in social settings. Why do we struggle to hear and be heard, in spite of that being precisely what we all desire? What if there was a simple, yet flexible, format through which we could improve not only our listening skills, but our ability to successfully ask for and get what we want? Perhaps it could even invoke our creativity and imagination, making it a fun experience instead of a dreaded one?

Enter stage right: The Improv Approach.

The Improv Approach takes the principles of improv comedy and applies them to everyday interactions, empowering you to navigate even difficult conversations with an ease that without such a strategy too often proves anything but mutually satisfying, and sometimes simply impossible.

While written primarily with business leaders in mind, Approaching Improv’s relatable technique makes it an indispensable resource for professionals and non-professionals alike.

Using the Improv Approach, you will learn:

• The foundational principles of improv, including but not limited to the “yes, and” technique, and how they can be implemented to make you a better boss, employee, family member, and friend.
• To successfully put these concepts into practice, even if you’re not a performer, common communication mistakes most people aren’t aware they’re making and how to solve them.
• How to increase your empathy and understanding, even when dealing with difficult people and situations.
• To open the door to healthy communication so the people in your life trust they can tell you the truths you need to hear.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2023 Caitlin Drago (P)2025 Caitlin Drago

Practical & Transformational

This book offers great practical tools and advice on how to approach culture building straight from the roots - human behavior! I love the author’s take on small shifts and practical tools that help teams reflect, connect, and support each other while building culture in small steps.

Authentic & Priceless

Caitlin's insights, passion and enthusiasm are priceless. This one is full of great nuggets & timeless reminders. Just the right length too!

Don't be scared...IMPROV is what you do every day!

IMPROV...we hear it and we think - acting - or we want to cower in a corner and hope that no one ever asks you to participate. Right? Wrong! IMPROV is for EVERYONE...yes, even you. As leaders, our day is not scripted, so we are responding in real time - IMPROV is what we do every day! Caitlin explains how to create a respectful, compassionate, and productive work environment by using strategies that are comfortable and feel natural. Using the "yes, and" mindset is one thing you can implement right now. "Yes, I understand IMPROV may be scary, and I know it will help my organization to thrive when I give it a try!" Another key idea Caitlin reinforces is the idea of making each other look good. This is often forgotten when our own ego gets in the way. However, the ultimate goal of any successful team is to look good TOGETHER, and to lift each other up. Step aside now and then and let someone else take their moment in the spotlight! This might mean letting go of your brilliant idea to make room for others to share their brilliant ideas. Lastly, I particularly enjoyed how Caitlin reframed how to approach giving feedback...using the model of observation, effect on others, why it is important, and establishing a concrete action. Similar to the "notice and wonder" approach, this model is non-threatening and approaches feedback with compassion, while still holding space for accountability and action. I plan to incorporate Caitlin's ideas in our Leadership Development Program.