Tip 13: Use Humor Wisely

I will admit something that's as difficult to say as it is to hear. I've never owned up to it before because it's so subjective. And it's not something you declare yourself to be -- it's for others to decide. But I think I've finally reached the right age, have met enough people, and have had enough experiences where I can say this rather confidently.

I'm funny.

Now, hold on while I start breathing again.

I think it's important to accept because acknowledging it helps me control it better and use my humor more strategically. How can you use something to your benefit if you keep denying that it's there? In my younger days, I often wielded my humor irresponsibly. I tell myself I never hurt anyone because - after all - what power did I have? But I don't know that for sure, especially since sarcasm is my thing. I remember someone telling me sarcasm is "hostility wrapped in humor." Ouch. But I think I can speak for most of us frequent sarcasm users when I say, "We know that. We were just hoping you didn't."

I understand the risks of using humor. For example, there's this article in HBR: Making Jokes During a Presentation Helps Men But Hurts Women . TLDR: Humor in business presentations enhances the perceived status and capability of men, but studies suggest that when women use humor, they are often viewed as having "lower professional competence," and their performance evaluations suffer. I read the article with deep interest and then, to my benefit and detriment, changed nothing.

There are other risks as well. Humor can be distracting with you're a speaker and take time away from the intent of your session or story. Experience has shown me that I usually don't need to watch what I say as much as how often and how long I prattle on. And again, embracing my sense of humor helps me control that...for the most part. Like stories, humor is only a tool that one has to proactively learn how to use well.

Of course, the most significant risk is that you may learn that you're actually not funny at all <shiver>.

The Benefits of Humor

Using humor wisely in personal storytelling plays a significant role in enhancing the narrative's appeal and relatability. It can lighten the mood and provide relief from more serious or intense moments, helping to balance the story's emotional tone. Humor often makes characters likable and relatable, showcasing their more human, approachable sides.

When used appropriately, humor can also underscore deeper themes or truths in a subtle, impactful way, allowing meaningful messages to be conveyed with a light touch. Humor can also be a powerful tool for connecting with the audience, breaking down barriers and making the story more engaging and memorable. It also aids in creating a unique voice for the narrator, adding personality and distinctiveness to the narrative.

Here are three mildly humorous examples:

Example 1: The Misadventure of a Business Trip

"My first business trip was supposed to be straightforward – fly in, attend the meeting, fly out. But, of course, it wasn’t. I ended up at the wrong hotel, and then I walked into the wrong conference room – a yoga retreat, not a meeting room filled with my colleagues. There I was, in a suit and tie, surrounded by people in yoga pants, contorted into positions I didn't know humans were capable of. The instructor loudly whispered, 'Can I help you?' I joked, 'Well, I was going to attend a meeting with my boss, but this looks easier.' The absurdity of the situation broke the ice and, in a way, eased my nerves about the actual meeting."

This humorous anecdote effectively lightens the narrative, adding a touch of relatability and human error to the protagonist's business journey. The humor arises naturally from the situation, making it feel authentic and unforced. It endears the protagonist to the reader, showing their ability to maintain a sense of humor in unexpected situations.

Example 2: The Office Coffee Saga???

"In our office, the coffee machine was a sacred entity. One day, it malfunctioned, and you’d think the world had ended. I sent an email that read, 'Brace yourselves – the coffee apocalypse has begun. Please form an orderly line for the emergency caffeine rations.' The email got a few laughs and lightened the mood, reminding me that sometimes you must find humor in the small inconveniences."

This example of light-hearted humor brings a sense of camaraderie and levity to the office setting. The playful exaggeration about the coffee machine situation and the humorous email demonstrate how humor can create a more relaxed, enjoyable work environment. It shows the protagonist's role in maintaining a positive atmosphere, even in mundane or frustrating situations.

Example 3: Navigating Networking Events

"I've never been a fan of networking events – they feel like speed dating but with business cards. At one event, I asked a fellow attendee, 'Do you ever feel like you’re in a bizarre talent show, except the talent is small talk?' We both laughed. That joke broke the ice and we ended up having a genuine conversation about the awkwardness of these events, leading to a surprisingly fruitful business collaboration."

In this narrative, humor addresses the awkwardness of networking events, a sentiment many professionals can relate to. The protagonist's joke serves as an icebreaker, transforming a typically stiff interaction into an opportunity for genuine connection. This use of humor not only makes the protagonist more relatable but also illustrates how humor can be a tool for building meaningful business relationships.

In each of these examples, humor is used thoughtfully and appropriately, enhancing the narrative without detracting from the professionalism of the business context. It helps in humanizing the characters, relieving tension, and making the story more engaging for the reader.

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