Most entrepreneurs know how to hustle. We build the product, manage the team, pitch the client, and answer the 7 p.m. emails. But what happens when we get thrown a curveball, when a client changes the scope mid-call, or a networking opportunity demands quick thinking?
That’s where improv comes in.
In this episode of Let’s Talk Business, I sat down with Jill Pavlov, copywriter, comedian, and founder of CopyPop, who’s helping business owners build confidence, connection, and creativity through improv workshops.
If you’ve ever struggled to “sell yourself” in a meeting, freeze when asked about your services, or want to feel more natural in your marketing, Jill’s approach could be a game-changer.
Why Every Business Owner Needs to Think on Their Feet
Whether you’re pitching, networking, or answering tough client questions, your ability to respond with confidence matters.
“Improv isn’t just for actors,” Jill explains. “It’s a tool that helps you build trust and think quickly, something every entrepreneur needs.”
In industries like real estate, consulting, or even creative services, conversations don’t follow scripts. Jill’s workshops are designed to build that muscle, giving business owners the tools to show up, speak up, and stay sharp, even when things go sideways.
When Business Burnout Meets Real Life
Jill also opened up about a tough chapter in her entrepreneurial journey.
Between burnout and personal loss, she found herself pulling back from growth mode and going into maintenance just to stay afloat. “I didn’t burn it all down,” she said, “but there was a definite ring of fire.”
What helped her bounce back? Giving herself grace and eventually creating a time limit to restart. As she put it, “You can’t push through everything, but you also can’t let temporary setbacks become permanent pauses.”
Her advice to other business owners? Be kind to yourself but know when it’s time to get back in the game.
Our Overcoming Discouragement Worksheet can help you do just that.
Marketing Isn’t a Sprint, It’s a Conversation
Even as a professional copywriter, Jill admits she had to re-learn how to market herself when she launched her business.
“Most people rush to sell, but don’t spend enough time building trust or nurturing leads,” she said. “And if you’re using tools like ChatGPT, remember, it’s a partner, not a replacement.”
Her tip? Focus less on sounding impressive, and more on being relatable. Understand your audience’s real problems, and talk to them like a human. The sales will follow.
Use our Client Avatar to help you really understand your client and spend a day in their shoes.
The Cost of Saying Yes to the Wrong Clients
Like many of us, Jill once said yes to projects that weren’t the right fit, just to keep the cash flowing. But over time, she learned the power of saying no.
“If your services don’t truly solve their problem, don’t take the project,” she shared. “A bad fit hurts your brand, your energy, and your ability to serve clients who actually need you.”
Clear expectations, firm boundaries, and honest referrals are a sign of strength, not weakness.
Jill’s Go-To Resource: Influence by Dr. Robert Cialdini
Her top recommendation for entrepreneurs? The book Influence by Dr. Robert Cialdini.
“It changed how I show up online,” Jill said. “Every chapter teaches you how to connect and persuade with authenticity, and I swear, I’d see real-world examples of each principle the next day.”
If your marketing feels flat or disconnected, this book will help you understand why, and how to fix it.
Is Improv the Tool You Didn’t Know You Needed?
Ask yourself:
- ✅ Do I struggle to articulate what I do in a way that resonates?
- ✅ Do I panic when a conversation doesn’t go according to plan?
- ✅ Do I want to build more confidence when speaking or selling?
- ✅ Am I using generic, robotic marketing instead of real conversations?
- ✅ Would I benefit from more creativity and fun in my business?
If you answered yes to any of these, Jill’s improv-for-entrepreneurs approach might be exactly what you need. Contact Jill to get more information.
Final Thoughts: Confidence Is a Business Strategy
Running a business is unpredictable. But the more confident and prepared you are, the better you’ll handle what comes next.
Jill reminds us that our voice is our power, and when we use it with authenticity, people respond.
Want to learn more about improv workshops, copywriting, or connecting with confidence? Visit Copy-Pop or check her out on Instagram at @comedyjill.
Need help finding your voice and growing your business with clarity? Let’s talk.
