S P R I N G 2 0 2 2 3 BUSINESS solutions In recent years, more and more companies have begun to recognize the need for a little levity around the office. So much so that many consultants now make a living offering advice on how to infuse humor and fun into the workplace. Why? The answer is simple. Studies have demonstrated that laughter has positive effects on both our physical and mental health. In fact, laughing enhances the immune system, lowers blood pressure, and even releases natural antidepressants and painkillers in the body. This boost to our systems can result in fewer missed days, less illness, and reduced stress. But those benefits are just the beginning. Creating an atmosphere that welcomes humor often leads to productivity-boosting effects. Laughter improves morale, cuts down on employee turnover, reduces conflict, strengthens teamwork, builds loyalty, and fosters creativity. What’s more, laughing at work can help counteract the inevitable boredom that arises out of dull tasks and keeps people attentive during long meetings. Remember recess when you were a kid? Think of workplace humor as the adult equivalent of recess—a way to renew energy and focus. As comedian Milton Berle once said, “Laughter is an instant vacation.” Many employers now say that a good sense of humor is even a key factor when choosing new hires. This trait is seen as reflective of a person’s flexibility at work and an ability to build good rapport with colleagues. With just a little effort, you can make your workplace a little more fun for everyone. After all, Americans typically spend more waking hours at work than at home, so it’s a good idea to find ways to enjoy it. And with all the benefits of laughter, you may be laughing your way to the bank. Have More Fun, Get More Done Tips for Effectively Using Humor While at work, you need to make sure your attempts at humor don’t venture into offensive or disruptive territory. Keep these tips in mind: • Be self-deprecating. We all appreciate people who can laugh at themselves from time to time. Don’t take yourself too seriously! • Find humor in stressful situations. By pointing out the funny side of a task or project your team is working on, your colleagues will easily relate—and no one will get their feelings hurt. • Add humor to the agenda. Devote the first two or three minutes of each meeting to humor and lighten the conversation before getting down to business. • Avoid sarcasm. Sarcasm may work with your closest friends but in a work environment, it can be misinterpreted as a put-down or a thinly veiled comment on someone’s actual work habits or skills. Likewise, remarks and jokes related to race or gender are strictly off-limits.
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