Internal jokes are a great first impression for a new employee

A couple of days ago, a new developer joined our talented family at Roomer Travel. Not long after he arrived he joined us at our daily standup meeting, where we each share the most important highlight we're expecting that day (important meeting, researching a new project, analyzing interesting data etc). As many typical mornings, there was good energy as we each mentioned our highlight. So much so, that we made fun with certain updates, bursting into laughter after some Freudian slips were made with others. We try to take these stand-ups seriously but we're actually very funny people and we can't help ourselves. 

I found myself thinking at some point, that poor #NewEmployee must be wondering what the heck is going on, maybe having second thoughts about joining this weird group.  And then I took another look around. You know what? This is actually the best first-impression we can give! This is what I would think:

• These people seem like they're really connected to each other #FriendlyWorkEnvironment
• These people really listen to each other's updates, since they also remember what each person said yesterday (and then squeeze a joke about) #Engaged
• These people are conscious about what they're going to work on today, looking forward to work on at least one thing that will excite them and that will make a difference. #Focused
• These people are accepting enough to make fun of each other, which can also mean that people can speak their minds freely and openly, without fear of quickly being criticized. (Worst case, someone will make a meme out of it which will then be shared on our office Whatsapp group). 

I can live with that. And hopefully #NewEmployee will love it soon too :)