IN-Q is a slam poetry veteran and accomplished songwriter who helps teams connect through the power of poetry. He discusses the surprising intersection of creativity and business, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability in fostering collaboration. IN-Q shares personal poems and guides listeners through writing exercises, illustrating how authentic expression can deepen connections. He reflects on transformational moments in his life, highlighting how storytelling and art can inspire hope and healing.
Incorporating poetry into corporate settings can enhance culture and creativity by fostering vulnerability and deeper connections among teams.
Embracing vulnerability in professional relationships creates safe spaces for open communication, leading to increased empathy and collaboration within organizations.
Deep dives
The Unexpected Value of Poetry in Business
Hiring a poet can significantly enhance a corporation's culture and creativity. Poetry encourages vulnerability and self-expression, which can foster stronger teamwork and collaboration among employees. A simple 10-minute poetic exercise can bring a team closer together, breaking down barriers that often exist in a rigid corporate environment. This transformative approach illustrates how art can be leveraged to improve communication and connection in the workplace.
Vulnerability as a Catalyst for Connection
Embracing vulnerability is crucial for fostering authentic relationships in business settings. When a facilitator shows vulnerability, it creates a safe space for others to follow suit, leading to an atmosphere conducive to open communication. People often struggle with their emotions and may hesitate to share their real selves, but a conducive environment can allow for meaningful exchanges. This process can result in heightened empathy and collaboration that benefits the entire organization.
The Power of Creative Expression
Writing poetry is a method of personal exploration that encourages self-discovery and emotional articulation. The act of creating poetry allows individuals to process their life experiences and share their truths in a profound way. Participants in workshops often surprise themselves with the emotional depth and authenticity of their creations. This act of expression can be both cathartic and enlightening, highlighting the transformative power of creativity in personal and professional contexts.
Redefining Artistic Purpose in Corporate Spaces
Artists can play an essential role in corporate environments, offering fresh perspectives and methods of engagement. For many poets, the challenge lies in reshaping their art to connect with audiences who may initially be resistant or indifferent. By sharing their experiences and guiding others through creative exercises, artists can reveal the profound impact of storytelling and poetry. Ultimately, this approach not only enhances corporate culture but also redefines the perception of what it means to be an artist today.
Business and poetry usually don't mix. But vulnerability has the power to bring teams together.
Poet IN-Q has found an unlikely audience in business. A slam poetry veteran and accomplished songwriter, companies invite IN-Q to help strengthen their cultures. He works with teams to connect on a deeper level, using poetry to share something human. As he'll tell you, winning over crowds of skeptical businesspeople is an art.
In this conversation, IN-Q takes me through a powerful exercise in vulnerability. He shares some deeply personal poems and walks me through writing my own, and I learn that to truly connect with someone else, you must offer something of yourself first.