Using improv to empower leadership in complex times
A courageous leader is someone who embraces uncertainty, makes bold decisions and leads with empathy and conviction. Today these qualities are more critical than ever as leaders face increasing complexity, from technological disruptions to societal challenges. But courage in leadership is not inherent; it can be developed.
This was the focus of the Courageous Leaders event, founded by Nilema Bhakta-Jones, where improv expert Neil Mullarkey provided a unique approach to fostering leadership skills such as adaptability, emotional intelligence and collaboration.
Neil’s session was designed to help leaders navigate the demands of modern leadership with confidence and authenticity. In a room filled with 140 CEOs, founders and senior executives, Neil used improv techniques to build the practical tools leaders need to act courageously in the face of uncertainty. Through engaging exercises and interactive role-playing, participants learned how to break down barriers, strengthen their emotional resilience and foster deeper connections within their teams.
The Challenge
Nilema, whose career spans three decades in law and business, founded Courageous Leaders in 2016 as a way to inspire leaders to lead with purpose. Having navigated personal and professional challenges herself, she understood the importance of fostering courage and emotional intelligence in leadership. The Courageous Leaders event has since grown, raising funds for Plan International and supporting education for marginalised girls in Zimbabwe.
The annual event tackles the multifaceted pressures leaders face today, such as geopolitical uncertainty, technological advancements and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Recognising the need for fresh tools to address these complex challenges, Nilema turned to Neil to facilitate a session.
The innovative solution
Neil’s approach uses improv comedy to develop skills crucial for leadership: active listening, collaboration and adaptability. This was no ordinary speaking engagement, it was designed to provoke thought and encourage emotional engagement.
The session focused on disrupting the usual flow of corporate events. The aim was to engage leaders directly, encouraging them to shift how they interact with others and reflect on their leadership style. By drawing on improv techniques Neil helped participants explore new ways of managing teams and handling the uncertainty they face in their daily roles.
Execution and impact
The session was structured around several key improv techniques, each chosen for its relevance to leadership.
Interactive improv exercises: Participants engaged in activities that required them to listen actively and respond quickly. These exercises levelled the playing field, ensuring everyone had a voice. For leaders used to being in control the exercises provided a different experience, encouraging them to step back and work more collaboratively.
Role-playing and offers: Neil introduced the concept of "offers" where participants have to listen to what their partner is "offering" and build on it. This technique demonstrates the importance of acceptance and contribution, which are central to effective teamwork. Leaders are pushed to be more present and responsive, key skills for managing dynamic teams.
Active listening: One of the session’s key lessons was the distinction between passive and active listening. Neil highlighted how fully engaging with a speaker can transform team dynamics, leading to better understanding and stronger relationships. Leaders learned that by truly listening, they could foster more open and effective communication within their teams.
Outcomes
The improv session had a profound impact on the participants, providing them with practical tools they could apply to their leadership roles. Some of the key outcomes included:
Enhanced collaboration: Participants gained a deeper appreciation for each other's contributions. The improv exercises broke down barriers and fostered a more collaborative environment. Even those who were more reserved found themselves engaging in new ways, demonstrating that everyone has something valuable to offer in a team setting.
Increased emotional intelligence: The session helped leaders better understand their own emotions and those of others. This was particularly important given the high-pressure environment many participants operated in. Neil’s exercises fostered greater empathy and self-awareness, allowing leaders to manage stress and navigate difficult conversations more effectively.
Practical tools for leadership: The session wasn’t just theoretical, it offered actionable insights. Neil’s emphasis on active listening and the concept of offers provided leaders with tools they could take back to their teams. These techniques are directly applicable in everyday scenarios, helping leaders foster better communication and stronger collaboration.
Feedback and lessons
The feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, says Nilema. Many spoke of "aha" moments where they realised how improv techniques could be woven into their leadership approach. The exercises not only provided valuable skills but also created an atmosphere of camaraderie and connection among attendees.
Key takeaways from the session included:
Building courage: Neil’s session mirrored the core mission of Courageous Leaders – encouraging participants to step outside their comfort zones. Leaders learned to embrace uncertainty, which is essential in today’s unpredictable business environment.
Human connection: The energy and engagement during the session helped break down formalities, allowing participants to connect on a more personal level. This focus on connection is crucial for building a supportive and collaborative work environment.
Versatility and adaptability: Neil’s ability to tailor his approach to the specific needs of the audience was one of the session’s key strengths. Leaders from various industries found the techniques relevant and adaptable to their unique challenges.
Implications
The success of Neil’s session at Courageous Leaders highlights the potential for improv techniques to transform leadership development. These methods are especially valuable in a business world that increasingly demands agility and emotional intelligence.
Several applications for Neil’s approach include:
Team offsites: Improv can foster deeper collaboration and creativity during team-building events, helping teams bond and think more flexibly.
Leadership training: Improv exercises can be integrated into formal leadership training programs, helping leaders develop soft skills such as empathy, active listening and quick decision-making.
Corporate culture: Improv encourages a culture of openness, experimentation and continuous learning. This approach helps teams become more resilient and adaptable, qualities that are essential for thriving in times of change.
Nilema emphasises the importance of bringing in external expertise like Neil’s into organisations to disrupt conventional thinking and inspire new ideas. While leaders can adopt some principles of improv on their own, the full impact is realised through direct facilitation. Neil’s ability to create a safe space for experimentation and learning made the session particularly effective.
For organisations seeking to improve their leadership development programmes incorporating improv techniques offers a fresh, effective approach. The ability to think creatively, engage authentically and lead with empathy will be key to success in the years to come.