I have always enjoyed the world of improv theater. Improv has made its way into businesses as a team building and strategy tool to help employees learn how to communicate with one another. The reason this works is because improv is about surrendering control and making the other person look their best. Sounds a little bit like public relations, right?
Just say “Yes, and…”
Now I’m not asking you to suddenly jump out on the social media feeds and start making it up as you go; there’s a reason why not just anyone can do improv theater. It takes practice, training, discipline and a great sense of humor to really master the craft. And believe it or not, there is a strategy. Here are three lessons I’ve learned from improv that can be applied to a public relations marketing strategy.
1. Say Yes
The first rule of improv is “Yes, and…” This principle allows for possibilities to be endless and for an idea to always blossom in some fashion. This creates a safe atmosphere where every idea is encouraged instead of challenged. Instead of saying “That won’t work” you simply say, “Yes, and we could pin it to Pinterest!” A bad idea can be turned into a great one with the right people supporting it.
2. Stop Over-Thinking Everything
The moment that you start to over-think is the exact moment all hell breaks loose. In improv, people too often make the mistake of trying to be perfect or incredibly clever. They try too hard to relate to an audience they know nothing about. The same can be applied to public relations. Do not try and be funny or clever or extremely unique; it will be obvious to your customers and potential followers that you’re trying too hard. Instead, go with your instinct, your gut feeling and your first reaction. Taking risks is what will propel you forward.
3. Have a Flexible Script
You might have an awesome outline for your public relations strategy. Congratulations. What is going to happen when it doesn’t work anymore? Do me (and the rest of the world) a favor and throw that script out the window if it’s no longer effective. Create! If something changes, go with it! If you try to control everything, you will soon find yourself overwhelmed and stuck; so go with the flow.
I encourage all public relations marketers and specialists to try their hand at improv. Have you done it before? We’d love to hear about your experiences!
Photo Credit: Mild Mannered Photographer
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