Improv is key to improving interpersonal relationships

Whether you work in the hospitality industry or media world, the skills you acquire in one of these drop-in classes could help us all be better connected at work and at play.

With my improv group at Logan Square Improv | Photos: Matthew Lowell

I’ve told myself for more than 20 years that I was going to take one of those “drop-in” improv classes to improve my communications skills. Though I’ve been a guest contributor on television news for more than 20 years, plus host or guest on radio shows and podcasts, and a frequent panel moderator and keynote speaker, I know that there’s always room to be better.

I’m looking to connect with audiences in the most pleasant, authentic and engaging manner while simultaneously providing them with valuable information. Of course, I also want to leave them wanting more. So, that’s why I took two of these classes in early July, one at iO Improv and the second at Logan Square Improv, both in Chicago. I left learning even more valuable lessons.

The first venue’s session was reserved for pretty much anyone curious about exploring the craft, while the latter was filled with people who had some experience. What was great is that both classes eagerly welcomed all.

My biggest scene at Logan Square Improv, where my cast mate and I discussed how to knit colorful clothes for killer cats. You had to be there to understand!

Another important similarity was that both classes had participants introducing themselves, then taking part in various exercises to ensure that everyone was listening. Listening, of course, is essential in improv and helps create magic and robust storytelling. It’s also essential in real life because the more you connect with others, the better the relationship, whether it’s short term between a server and a table full of hungry diners or a long-term relationship between work colleagues.

In various situations, we learned how to connect deeply with other people to anticipate their next moves, communicate our thoughts at a rapid pace and allow ourselves to be uninhibited amongst strangers.

My friend Dee Dee being a good sport with me at iO Improv.

These skills may also come in handy if you find yourself in a sticky situation. It can be an opportunity for you to truly listen to the other person, to seek an understanding of where that person is coming from, and diffuse the situation. With so many people having such strong opinions about politics, pop culture, world events and even which city boasts the best pizza, it can be difficult to find common ground.

A drop-in improv class, where people from all walks of life meet in a tiny room for approximately two hours, is a great start.

Dee Dee with husband Jim listening intently to the instructor, DeShawn.

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