Going OFF SCRIPT doesn’t come naturally to most organizational leaders. We want to control the narrative, ensure ideal outcomes, script the conversations, manage the problems, predict the future, and win (negotiations, new business, market share, and more). But what if good leaders could become better leaders by doing the opposite — by letting go of the control, by going “off script” in their conversations and negotiations, by being present instead of rushing to the future, and by collaborating in authentic, empathetic ways?  If your organization is like most, the old way of communicating and managing isn’t working for you. Status quo is coming up short. It’s time to master the art of business improvisation (“improv”)!  

Returning to the podcast is renowned speaker, bestselling business author, Accidental Accountant, leadership expert, and improv virtuoso Peter Margaritis to chat about his new book, Off Script: Mastering the Art of Business Improv. In what is his third book on effective workplace communication, Peter invites managers, directors, founders, vice presidents, and chief executives to redefine leadership and teamwork. And he teaches you the techniques he’s taught employees at world-class brands like White Castle Systems, Cardinal Health, Target, Oklahoma State University, and Marriott.  "Business improv is about letting go of your own agenda to listen intently — to be empathetic and open-minded in the present moment — so you can truly connect with colleagues and other stakeholders to generate optimal results."  

In business and in life, we tend to respond to others with “No, because ...” or “Yes, but ...” These dismissive and controlling tendencies lead to impasses, arguments, and ultimately failures. But when we learn to respond to others with “Yes, and ...” — acknowledging what we’ve heard and building upon it — we arrive more quickly at agreement and at breakthrough solutions for challenging problems. “Yes, and ...” is one of several improv techniques you’ll learn from Peter Margaritis’s Off Script! — a book that will help you build bridges, generate good ideas, adapt to any situation, nurture teams, and keep your anxiety at bay.  

Here's a sneak peek at what we cover: The importance of "preparation" in improv The case for "improv" in improving organizational cultures Practical advice based on real-life scenarios Making sure your virtual meetings and presentations don't suck 

Enjoyed this conversation with Peter? Want to learn more about business improv? Leave your thoughts and feedback in the comments section below! Make sure to follow Peter and I on LinkedIn for more.  Subscribe: youtube.com/anncampea  Listen: https://anchor.fm/theeverydaypm   LINKS:  https://petermargaritis.com/ - Learn about Peter! https://offscriptimprov.com/ - Buy the book!  

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Ann Campea, MSPM, MPH, PMP - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anncampea/Worldwide Readiness Program Manager at Apple, Inc. Program/Project management professional with 10 years of experience in product development, physical retail launches, health care, and tech industries.   

Peter Margaritis, CSP, C.P.A. - https://www.linkedin.com/in/petermargaritis/Certified Virtual Presenter, Keynote Speaker, Improv Virtuoso, Author, Podcaster, Educator, and Humorist Peter is a licensed, non-practicing, CPA in Ohio. Peter has worked for companies such as Price Waterhouse, Victoria’s Secret Catalogue (not as a model), and Ohio Dominican University. Peter has earned the highest credential of a Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) from the National Speakers Association.