Taking an improv class is a lot of fun and a great way to get a ton of takeaways to use in your practice. HOWEVER, the thought of getting up in front of a group, without any preparation, can be nerve wracking. We’re here to tell you, it’s totally normal to feel nervous. In fact, before we took our first improv classes, we were a ball of anxiety. And we’re professional actors!

To take some of the “unknown” out of it, here is what you can expect from our improv workshops:

#1: The Lead Up

You’ll get a reminder email one week before your scheduled class. A zoom link, handouts and any other info you’ll need will be sent 1-2 days ahead of time. Feel free to contact us any time if you have any questions leading up to class.

#2: The Workshop

This is where the serious FUN begins. You’re welcome to log in a few minutes early to say “hi” and get situated. We’ll start by explaining the rules of improv and then jump into our first exercise geared toward getting to know everyone. You’ll meet attorneys from all over the country- most of whom have never taken an improv class before.

Each exercise directly translates to your work as an attorney and is structured for your benefit and success. We’ll tell you the goal of the exercise and model it before it’s your turn to get on-your-feet. AND if you make a mistake along the way, it’s OK. We make mistakes too! It’s all part of the practice. The purpose is to reduce the fear of failure by becoming more comfortable with messing up. You’re creating muscle memory (without high-pressure stakes) so that when obstacles come up in client interactions, negotiations, direct and cross-examinations, you’ll know how it feels and be prepared with tools to overcome them. In between the exercises you’ll have a chance to talk with the other attorneys about how the exercises connect to your work.

You’ll sharpen your active listening skills while practicing techniques for word selection, controlling a witness and using the 3 rules of constructive cross. The culmination-exercise is geared towards tying together all the techniques you’ve built.

#3: After Class

These classes are meant to help you become a better advocate for your client. We’ll send a short survey to let us know your thoughts. Your feedback is valuable to us!

#4: Beyond the “Fun and Gains”

When participating in any of our workshops, it’s important to remember these 5 things:

  1. An open mind and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone creates breakthroughs.
  2. There is no magic pill to winning every case, every time.
  3. No one is perfect. Everyone has something to learn and work on.
  4. Improv doesn’t mean” zero preparation”. We don’t encourage winging it in the courtroom.
  5. If you missed your calling and would rather be an actor, this is not the class for you.

Ready to work with us and take a plunge into a Lawyer’s Improv Workshop?