Research has shown that people like and are more productive with appropriately humorous leaders. Why? First, the environment is perceived as cheerful, fun, friendly, and relaxed. Second, a funny leader is perceived to be more motivating. Third, a funny leader can be perceived as easygoing, which could result in people being less worried about receiving negative evaluations.
So what is appropriate humor?
• It encourages a positive atmosphere and builds confidence by being supportive.
• It builds rapport and trust and is based on caring.
• It brings people together. It’s inclusive and shared.
• It decreases prejudice by focusing on universal human experiences.
• Humor can be self-effacing and model how to poke fun at yourself without being negative or too self-critical
Warning: The more culturally diverse the audience, the harder it is to be humorous. What is funny in one culture may not translate well to another!
(From the talk on Leadership Lessons by Dr. Mimi Hull)
Humor in the Workplace
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Dear Dr. Mimi – Backup
Dear Dr. Mimi,My boss favors another employee and schedules them for more shifts. We are on the same skill level and have had the same training, but I am being treated like a “backup” for them. I am afraid to bring this up to my manager for fear that they will reprimand or even fire…
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Dear Dr. Mimi – Overworked Student
Dear Dr. Mimi,I am a working college student, and my company is supposed to be accommodating to students’ schedules. However, my boss keeps asking me to come into work at times she knows that I have classes or study groups. I have tried to make this issue known to her, but she keeps dismissing me.…
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Dear Dr. Mimi — Frustrated
Dear Dr. Mimi,I trained a new employee about a month ago, but they still don’t seem to be getting it. They mess up almost every task I give them. What can I do to fix this? Should I just fire them?—Frustrated Dear Frustrated,It can be tricky working with new employees. If you think they are…
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