DisruptHR: “Improv your HR" by Suzanne Lucas
In the world of Human Resources, where each day brings unpredictable challenges, Suzanne Lucas explores the potential of improv comedy as an effective tool. Delivered at DisruptHR, her talk revolves around key principles such as "Yes, and," service orientation, authenticity in the workplace, and the art of failing with joy.
Improv in HR: Embracing Spontaneity
Suzanne Lucas sets the stage by introducing the concept of using improv comedy in HR. Drawing parallels between the make-it-up-as-you-go nature of improv and the unpredictable flow of HR tasks, she suggests that the ability to adapt and think on one's feet is essential in the dynamic HR landscape
"Yes, And...": Building on Positivity
The "Yes, and" principle takes center stage as Suzanne highlights the importance of accepting and building upon what others say. In the context of improv comedy, this principle encourages collaboration and mirrors the collaborative problem-solving required in HR. By accepting ideas and building on them, HR professionals can foster a more positive and creative work environment.
Service Orientation: Providing Solutions
Suzanne emphasizes the service-oriented aspect of HR, urging professionals to focus on providing solutions rather than placing the burden on employees seeking assistance. In dealing with sensitive issues, such as workplace harassment, she advocates for a proactive approach that offers concrete steps to address problems, rather than merely asking employees how they would like to proceed.
Authenticity in the Workplace: Balancing Emotions
Challenging the common notion of bringing one's authentic self to work, Suzanne suggests that there are situations where displaying true emotions may not be appropriate. Using the example of terminating employees, she underscores the need to choose appropriate emotions, acknowledging that not every feeling needs to be expressed openly in a professional setting.
Failing with Joy: Embracing a Positive Attitude
Suzanne concludes by addressing the inevitability of failure, exemplified by her own missed slide cue. She encourages HR professionals to approach failure with joy, viewing it as a temporary setback that can be learned from and even laughed about in the future. By adopting a positive attitude toward failure, HR teams can foster resilience and maintain a sense of humor in the face of challenges.
In summary, Suzanne Lucas advocates for the integration of improv principles into HR practices. Whether it's embracing spontaneity, building on positivity, providing service-oriented solutions, balancing authenticity, or failing with joy, these principles offer a fresh perspective on navigating the ever-evolving world of Human Resources. Improv, it seems, is not just for the stage but also for the HR office, where adaptability and a positive mindset can make all the difference.
Our Sponsors
A big thank you goes to our sponsors HR Cosmos, Coople & Personio.
About DisruptHR
„Teach us something but do it quick“ – DisruptHR presents inspiring speakers worlwide who are questioning the status quo and look into the future with their ideas.
SPOT ON organizes this format for Zurich and brings together HR enthusiasts.
