Overcoming unforeseen challenges has always been a part of the business landscape. However, the pace at which professionals need to adapt to these challenges is now faster than ever before. The global pandemic accelerated the VUCA (volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity) world we find ourselves in today. This state of constant change requires businesses to respond effectively to survive and thrive.
According to a Harvard Business Review article by Angus Fletcher, Thomas L. Gaines, and Brittany Loney, organizations that excel in this environment are those that can navigate through volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity. The ability to improvise, think on the feet, and expect the unexpected has become essential in our modern business climate.
What Is Applied Improvisation?
Francesca Gino, a Professor of Business Administration at Harvard Business School, found that improv comedy classes offer valuable insights into effective communication and collaboration. Leading organizations like Google, Meta, McKinsey, and Kearney, along with top universities, are exploring Applied Improvisation to enhance professional development and organizational performance.
Applied Improvisation (AIM) is a training approach that uses improvisational principles to improve management competencies. The nine principles of AIM provide a framework for staff to enhance their adaptability, communication, collaboration, and innovation skills.
How It Works
Specialized AIM programs led by skilled facilitators help participants develop key competencies. These programs, conducted in-office or during retreats, focus on fostering a culture of collaboration, creativity, and adaptability. Interactive workshops and debrief sessions help participants reflect on their choices and apply the learning to real-world scenarios.
Using AIM To Address VUCA
By applying AIM principles, teams can improve their performance in a VUCA environment. AIM programs help teams build trust, manage conflict, think creatively, and innovate in the face of uncertainty. Participants learn to leverage their strengths and available resources to find solutions effectively.
As Mary Lemmer, founder of Improve, highlights, improv skills equip individuals to be creative problem solvers and adapt to changing circumstances. Embracing improvisation as a valuable skill can lead to better business outcomes in challenging situations.
Conclusion
Strategic planning alone is no longer sufficient to tackle modern business challenges. Embracing the unexpected and leveraging AIM principles can empower professionals to respond quickly and effectively. In a rapidly changing world, the ability to improvise and adapt may be the most valuable skill for success in the 21st century.
References:
- How to Be a Better Leader Amid Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity; Angus Fletcher, Thomas L. Gaines, and Brittany Loney; Harvard Business Review; September 28, 2023.
- Using Improv to Unite Your Team, Francesca Gino, Harvard Business Review; May 16, 2019.
