It’s a frequently heard caution: “Avoid humor in the workplace; more often than not, the joke is on you!”
Humor? Seriously? Research indicates that managers possessing a sense of humor are perceived as much as 23% more respected, 25% more enjoyable to work with, and 17% friendlier. Organizations incorporating humor into their work culture report employees who are 16% more likely to remain in their jobs, feel engaged, and experience satisfaction. Workplace humor also fosters trust, sparks creativity, nurtures psychological safety, and enhances the ability to cope with stress. Thus, HQ (humor quotient) is as crucial as IQ, SQ (social quotient), and EQ (emotional quotient) combined, emerging as the next managerial remedy.
The significance of humor lies in the power of connection, shared laughter, and the ability to collectively find joy, acting as true catalysts for productivity. More leaders are recognizing the growing need for EQ and empathy, authenticity, vulnerability that allows others to know you, and the humility that often accompanies the ability to laugh at oneself, alleviating the pressures of corporate life.
To boost HQ in the workplace, fostering a mindset of levity and frivolity is crucial, nurturing a positive culture and building social cohesion. These virtues extend to leaders and managers who are purpose-driven and fueled by humor. The art of using humor isn’t about putting people down but uplifting them with new opportunities through work. Purposeful and lighthearted leaders are gaining popularity, navigating work more effectively, enhancing self-awareness, and increasing productivity through positive emotions.
Culture is a pivotal factor in this journey; workplaces encouraging authenticity are less hierarchical, more innovative, and likely to break down silos. Paradoxically, in many workplaces, employees consciously reduce their humor to be taken more seriously, resulting in a strange outcome where serious individuals are not taken seriously by their teams.
Research reveals that employees are more comfortable using humor with peers and colleagues rather than reporting managers, fearing misinterpretation. Concerns about offending someone, the fear of not being funny, and time constraints are factors affecting widespread adoption.
A Robert Half International Survey found that 91% of executives believe humor is crucial for career advancement, with 84% stating that individuals with a good sense of humor perform better at work. Notably, a Leadership Institute study identified a strong work ethic and a good sense of humor as standout traits in leaders.
Humor at work also facilitates rapport with stakeholders, enhances acceptance in conflict management and negotiations by encouraging divergent thinking, and humanizes business transactions, influencing success.
As we move forward, perhaps it’s time to consider a Chief Fun Officer rather than a Chief Executive Officer.
