Leading with Laughter

Humorist Malcolm Kushner discussed how humor was a powerful communication tool and everyone can use it even if they cannot tell a joke. Humor is also a powerful leadership tool. It can command attention, create rapport and make ideas more memorable. It can also relieve tension, defuse conflict and motivate people – if it’s used appropriately. Can you be professional and funny? Of course. The secret lies in understanding the difference between being funny and communicating a sense of humor. Communicate the fact that you have a sense of humor. You don’t need to tell a joke to show you have a sense of humor. Distinguish yourself from your subject matter. We like people who take work seriously without taking themselves too seriously. Poking a little fun at yourself is a leadership trait that reflects confidence and security. The greatest fear of using humor is not being funny and bombing. You don’t have to tell a joke to bomb. Kushner described some simple rules and techniques that will make it worth your while to use humor. Make it relevant by analogizing your humor to a point, use quotes from famous people, make up funny meanings (definitions) of words and use the rule of three (list two items to set up the joke and use the third as the punch line). Avoid sarcasm unless you are attacked first, then it is a totally legitimate defense. Use web generators such as the Einstein Dynamic Photo Generator or the Personalized Money Generator. You can find material at http://museumofhumor.com. Communicate the fact that you have a sense of humor because over time the content stays but the relationship remains. People don’t remember what the other person said but they do remember how they felt about them.