Have you ever found yourself at an improv show, laughing until your sides hurt, marveling at the actors’ lightning-fast creativity? I recently went to see ‘Showstoppers’ – a totally improvised musical where the audience contributed the setting, title, and musical styles, and the talented actors created a musical masterpiece on the spot! As I was watching the brilliance unfold on stage, it occurred to me that there were lots of lessons I could learn from their performance to take with me into my business.
1. Roll with the Punches: Adaptability Is Key
Improv, by its very nature, requires performers to embrace uncertainty. The actors had to take to the stage with only a basic setting and title, they had to dive in headfirst. As entrepreneurs we often find that our journey is often filled with uncertainty, and being able to pivot and adapt quickly is a valuable skill. Just as the actors in ‘Showstoppers’ made the best of their unpredictable scenarios, entrepreneurs must be prepared to tackle the unexpected twists and turns that come their way.
2. Think Outside the Box: Creativity Rules
In ‘Showstoppers’, the actors seamlessly merged various musical styles into their songs, creating a captivating performance. Entrepreneurs also need to think outside the box. In today’s competitive business landscape, being creative and innovative can set you apart from the crowd. Just as the performers skillfully combined various musical styles, entrepreneurs can blend different ideas and concepts to create something entirely new and unique.
3. Talk the Talk: Communication Is Key
Effective communication is the backbone of improv. The actors must actively listen to each other, build on their peers’ ideas, and maintain a cohesive storyline. In the business world, strong communication skills are equally essential. Whether you’re pitching your business to investors, collaborating with your team, or connecting with customers, effective communication is your secret weapon. Just as the actors worked together seamlessly, entrepreneurs who communicate effectively can build strong, successful teams and connections.
4. Be Nimble: Adapt to the Changing Tides
The ‘Showstoppers’ cast smoothly transitioned between different musical styles, showcasing their adaptability. Entrepreneurship demands a similar level of adaptability. Markets evolve, trends shift, and consumer preferences change. The ability to pivot and embrace change can be your superpower as an entrepreneur. Just as the actors shifted effortlessly from Hairspray to Hamilton, entrepreneurs can adjust their business strategies when needed, staying ahead of the curve.
5. Laugh at Your Missteps: Embrace Failure
Not every joke in improv lands, and not every song choice in ‘Showstoppers’ was a hit. But the performers didn’t let these missteps hold them back. In fact, when things went a bit wrong and one of the performers got tongue-tied it made the performance even funnier and more engaging! In entrepreneurship, failure is a part of the journey, but it should never be a roadblock. Embrace failure as an opportunity to learn, grow, and refine your approach. Just as the actors in the show moved past their missteps with confidence, entrepreneurs who can adapt and grow from their failures are better equipped to succeed in the long run.
6. Think on Your Feet: Quick Decision-Making Matters
Improv is all about thinking on your feet, and this skill is highly transferable to entrepreneurship. In both worlds, quick thinking is a valuable asset. When the unexpected happens in business, being able to make decisions swiftly and adapt to new circumstances can be the difference between success and stagnation. Entrepreneurs who can navigate challenging situations with creativity and grace are the ones who come out on top.
So, next time you find yourself at an improv show, remember you’re not just there for a good laugh; you’re also receiving a crash course in valuable entrepreneurial skills. In a world that’s ever-changing, unpredictable, and occasionally chaotic, these skills will be your compass on the path to entrepreneurial success.
