In my previous post, we explored the immense benefits of incorporating humor into the workplace. And who knew it would be one of my most popular posts on LinkedIn to date. Well it was. But I am not surprised And precisely why SHiNE spends time looking at humour.
I think there is a strong need, especially today, where working in healthcare, government or not for profits is stressful. And no surprise to you.
Like you,I dealt with some very serious issues and concerns, and some of them, were very complex and very heavy. And this heaviness is not unique to these 3 sectors.
So why was this post so popular and reposted many times? What I have observed is that many want and feel the need to have more humour in their workplace. It also tells me that perhaps some feel they need for permission to do it, or that it’s discouraged. Some may feel comfortable with it and do it but need to persuade others that it’s ok to do it. Or it’s a sign that there is a gap in knowledge on how exactly to do it. My observation is – it’s all of the above.
So here now is Part 2 and a deeper look into the practical aspects of using humor in the workplace, based on the book: Humor, Seriously: Why Humor Is a Secret Weapon in Business and Life by Jennifer Aaker and Naomi Bagdonas.
Why Humor Matters – A Recap
This is not new to you. We are living through a period of unprecedented uncertainty and upheaval in both our personal and professional lives. Trust, human connection, and mental well-being are all on the decline. This may seem like no laughing matter.
As I dig into this deeper, Aaker and Bagdonas point out that globally, there is something they call a humor cliff. And starting at the age of 23, the frequency of laugher drops off at a steep rate and stays like that till we are well into our 70’s.
Yet, research highlights that humor and laughter are among the most valuable tools we have for strengthening bonds, diffusing stress, boosting resilience, and performing under pressure. (The book and their work is based on a study that included over 1.4 million respondents from about 166 countries. Other fun fact – they also teach a course in Humor at Stanford Graduate School of Business.)
They argue that we have become too serious and its impacting how we “solve important problems, how to conduct ourselves and how to be successful.”
According to the book, humor can significantly enhance workplace dynamics where we are more ourselves and where we create more human connection. For example, other studies show that leaders who use humor effectively are seen as 27% more motivating and admired than those who don’t. Humor also contributes to a 15% increase in team performance and a significant boost in employee satisfaction.
A Few Myths that Need Busting
Aaker and Bagdonas point out that we carry and hold one of four myths, when thinking about using humour in the workplace.
1. Serious Business Myth – This is where folks believe there is no place for humour in the workplace. Aakers and Bogadanas argue that this comes from our insecurity about our lack of experience and where we worry about credibility. They point out research that shows that 98% executive leaders prefer employees to have a sense of humour and a further 84% associate better work with sense of humour. Humour, helps leaders be perceived as more human and authentic, which is what my experience has shown over the years.
2. Failure Myth – Probably one of the bigger reasons folks may not use humour, is the fear of failure or that their humour will fall flat. Research conducted has shown that whether there is laughter or not, is not the main determinant. It’s whether 1) you used ANY humour, and 2) whether it was appropriate. That’s the sweet spot. So go ahead and fail, as long as its appropriate humour. And when it is, it “signals status, confidence and competence.”
3. Being Funny Myth – Here, folks believe that the only way to inject humour into the workplace, that you in fact, have to “be funny” or being able to tell THE best jokes, for example. Rather, they argue that it’s not that at all. That you can bring humour into the workplace, just by having a sense of humour or being able to laugh, or laugh at yourself, or lightening the mood.
4. Born With It Myth – Many believe you are born funny or you are not. And if you are not, don’t bother. (I would actually say, I believed this about myself…once.) They argue, that this isn’t true at all, and research in fact shows, anything can be learned through practice, and using a growth mindset.
Bottom Line
As mentioned previously, mastering humor in the workplace can transform your leadership approach. We all carry myths that may hold us back, from having a more human experience at work.
As the book points out: “President Dwight David Eisenhower once said, “A sense of humor is part of the art of leadership, of getting along with people, of getting things done.” If Eisenhower, the second least naturally funny president (after Franklin Pierce), thought humor was necessary to win wars, build highways, and warn against the military-industrial complex, then you might consider it too.”
And to all the folks in this community, who already practice light hearted humour in the workplace, good on you and THANK YOU. You make a difference. And we need you to keep doing it.
Look for Part 3 next Saturday as we delve into the proven benefits and exactly how to do it.
See you then!
Email: SHiNE_Workbook@shaw.ca
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