Improv is all about taking risks and thinking on your feet — in-demand skills in today’s work environments! Comedian and actress Naomi Snieckus, most recognizable as the hilarious phys. ed. teacher on CBC’s hit comedy Mr. D., joined us this week to showcase her improv-based workshop that builds team communication, and, of course, makes you think on your feet.
Naomi’s enthusiasm and passion for improv was infectious! After 45-minutes filled with laughter — and some nervousness — we walked away feeling energized, and with a greater understanding of the power of active listening and the effect our words have on other people.
The improv-based activities fostered a supportive environment that encouraged us to focus solely on our team members and engage in clear and positive communication. You had to really listen to your team in order to complete the activity, which emphasized the simple yet often forgotten skill of “listening to understand.” We also learned first-hand the impact our choice of words can have. Saying someone “should” do something vs. “could” do something completely changed the tone of the conversation — one made the receiver defensive while the other encouraged an open conversation.
With each activity, Naomi tied it back to our organization showing us how these lessons can be applied to our specific work environment. We walked away with tips and tools that could be immediately implemented into our day-to-day schedules on both a personal and professional level.
An alumnus of The Second City Toronto, Naomi has written and performed in numerous hit shows with television and film credits including appearances on The Trailer Park Boys, Degrassi: The Next Generation, Little Mosque on the Prairie, and Being Erica. Naomi holds two Canadian Comedy Awards and was nominated for an Actra Award in 2013 for her work in Mr.D. She is also a founding member and co-artistic director (with Matt Baram) of the five-time Canadian Comedy Award-winning troupe, The National Theatre of the World.
Interested in learning more about Naomi and what she can bring to your next event? Contact us at [email protected].
