Improv is often thought of as requiring a constant state of invention in order to progress and move forward. I disagree. The most important skill in doing improv is listening. If you listen intentionally and intensely you will always be prepared. Don't get me wrong. It's very hard. But it's also worth practicing. By listening you show you care about your partners and their contributions as well as the performance you are putting on. If you listen, you'll pick up all the cards that have been dealt and you'll be able to make the best moves.

In working with people listening is paramount. It is essential for communication to come through and for collaboration to ensue. Everything else falls apart if you are not listening. I practice listening with my teammates and I make sure that I have understood what they are communicating. I ask questions to get on the same page as them.