The article from The New York Times explores the burgeoning field of corporate improv, highlighting how comedians like Bob Kulhan have successfully transitioned from live performances to teaching corporate workshops that focus on enhancing soft skills such as communication, creativity, and empathy. After early career struggles, Kulhan capitalized on the growing demand for improv training in the business world, creating a niche that allows comedians to leverage their skills in ways that are both impactful and lucrative. Corporate improv sessions can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars, with trainers often working with a variety of clients across different industries, including government agencies like the FBI. Despite the challenges of getting employees comfortable with improv exercises, many participants find that these workshops foster trust and creativity in the workplace.

Key Points:

• Bob Kulhan transitioned from a marketing career to improv comedy, eventually founding Business Improv.
• Corporate improv focuses on soft skill development like communication, trust, and creativity.
• Companies pay comedians to run team-building workshops, aiming to utilize improv skills in business settings.
• Kulhan's program gained traction after being introduced to business professors from Duke University.
• Corporate improv sessions can range from $500 to $3,000, with large engagements costing even more.
• The impact of improv training has been noted in diverse industries, including the military and sales.
• Challenges include employee reluctance to participate in improv exercises due to fear of embarrassment.
• Successful corporate improv workshops can lead to long-term improvements in team dynamics and creativity.
  Link to Article