In the world of improvisation, one of the most valuable principles is dropping assumptions. Improvisers enter each scene without preconceived notions, allowing them to remain fully present, respond authentically, and build on what’s happening in the moment. 

For corporate training facilitators, adopting this mindset can be transformational—creating deeper engagement, more meaningful discussions, and a learning environment where participants feel truly seen and heard.

Why Do We Make Assumptions?

Assumptions are a natural part of human cognition. We rely on past experiences to predict outcomes, categorize people, and streamline decision-making. While this can be efficient, it can also be limiting—especially in a learning environment.

Common facilitator assumptions include:

• Assuming participant knowledge levels – “Everyone here probably already knows this.”
• Assuming engagement levels – “This group looks disengaged, so they must not care.”
• Assuming preferred learning styles – “Most professionals prefer structured content over interactive discussion.”
• Assuming resistance to participation – “No one in this group will want to do role-playing exercises.”

These assumptions, even when made unconsciously, shape how facilitators approach their sessions and interact with participants—often in ways that stifle engagement rather than enhance it.

The Cost of Assumptions in Facilitation

When facilitators enter a session with rigid assumptions, they risk:

• Missing opportunities for deeper learning – When we assume what participants know, we may either oversimplify or overcomplicate content, failing to meet their actual needs.
• Creating disengagement – If facilitators assume a group is unresponsive, they might unconsciously project disinterest themselves, reinforcing the very disengagement they fear.
• Limiting adaptability – Assumptions lock facilitators into a pre-planned approach rather than allowing them to adjust based on real-time participant cues.
• Overlooking individual contributions – Participants may feel unheard if facilitators operate under assumptions rather than actively listening.

Research supports these concerns. A study in Thinking Skills and Creativity found that improvisation training enhances divergent thinking and comfort with uncertainty, leading to more adaptive and responsive communication strategies.

How to Drop Assumptions and Be More Engaging

1. Approach Every Session with Curiosity

Take a stance of genuine curiosity.

• Begin with open-ended questions: “What are you hoping to get out of this session?”
• Observe participant body language and reactions in real-time rather than relying on preconceived expectations.
• Treat each training as a unique experience, even if you’ve delivered the material many times before.

A study published in The Design Journal found that facilitators who incorporated improvisational techniques developed greater flexibility and tolerance for ambiguity, allowing them to respond more effectively to learners’ needs.

2. Listen First, Respond Second

Improvisers practice active listening to ensure they’re responding to what’s actually happening rather than what they expect to happen. Facilitators can do the same by:

• Pausing before responding to a participant’s comment to ensure they’re addressing the real intent behind it.
• Paraphrasing responses to confirm understanding: “So what I hear you saying is…”
• Letting go of the urge to immediately steer the conversation back to their planned agenda.

3. Embrace the Unexpected

One of the biggest barriers to dropping assumptions is a fear of the unknown. However, the best facilitators see unexpected moments as opportunities rather than disruptions.

• If a participant asks a question you didn’t anticipate, lean into it rather than deflecting.
• If an activity takes an unexpected turn, explore it instead of forcing it back on track.
• If the energy in the room shifts, adjust your approach rather than pushing forward with your original plan.

Research from Pepperdine University suggests that improvisation-based training fosters psychological safety, helping individuals feel more comfortable expressing themselves and taking interpersonal risks, which can be essential in a training setting (source).

4. Personalize Rather Than Generalize

Every group of learners is different, and assumptions often arise from generalizing past experiences. Instead of making blanket statements like “Most teams struggle with communication,” try:

• Asking the group: “What’s your biggest challenge in communication?”
• Offering options rather than dictating: “Would you rather start with a discussion or dive into an exercise?”
• Checking in frequently: “Does this resonate with your experience?”

5. Adopt a ‘Yes, And’ Mindset

The improv principle of ‘Yes, And’ is a powerful tool for dropping assumptions. Rather than dismissing unexpected participant contributions, facilitators can build upon them.

• If someone shares an unconventional idea, explore it: “That’s an interesting perspective—tell me more!”
• If a session takes an unplanned direction, adapt: “I hadn’t considered that angle, and let’s go there.”
• If a participant challenges an idea, engage rather than resist: “That’s a great counterpoint—let’s discuss both sides.”

This works across generations as seen in a study published in The Journal of Youth Development found that applied improvisation strengthens empathy and communication skills, making it a powerful tool for facilitators looking to engage participants more effectively (source).

The Impact of Dropping Assumptions

When facilitators let go of assumptions, they create:

• More engaged participants – Learners feel valued and heard.
• Deeper discussions – Conversations become more meaningful and relevant.
• Greater adaptability – Facilitators can respond effectively to real-time needs.
• A stronger learning culture – Participants are more willing to share, explore, and engage.

Conclusion

Dropping assumptions is not about abandoning structure—it’s about being open to what’s happening in the room rather than what we expect to happen. By approaching facilitation with curiosity, active listening, flexibility, personalization, and a ‘Yes, And’ mindset, trainers can create sessions that are more engaging and impactful.