Why So Serious?

One of our sales guys recently got a shocking mail from a client. It said that our visiting Project Manager (PM) had suddenly got irritated with the client, had an unpleasant argument and abruptly left his premises. Needless to say, the sales guy frantically called the client to check what happened, apologize, control the situation, etc.

The shock turned into a pleasant surprise as it was actually a prank played by the client; he and the PM had a bet on who would be the first person to be called by the sales guy if such a mail was sent (client lost the bet, by the way). The bonhomie between the PM and the client became a great story …and everyone was sending back-slapping mails, and the laughter on the floor was infectious.

Unfortunately, such funny incidents are extremely rare in our business. Fun and humor are seriously under-rated in the corporate world (and all the more so, in the Professional Services space).

Here are 5 reasons why you should get “serious” about “fun” (as ironic as it may sound).

1. Humor can help you and your organization stand out

Let us go back to the above example. With a single incident, it is ensured that the client remembers our PM (and us, as an organization) a lot more clearly; even within our organization, the PM has created an interesting story around himself, thereby distinguishing himself amongst his peers. A “fun” professional always stands out, and is frequently sought after, by all stakeholders.

2. Humor helps in damage control

I remember, in the early days of my career, a friend observed me in a few client discussions and gave me this invaluable piece of advice – “Ram, you’re extremely cordial, planned, thorough and professional. No one can flaw your approach, per se; but I don’t see you bringing any “fun” to the conversation. So, when you have a problem to be managed (or a favor to ask the client) you struggle; if you build a good relationship, managing the inevitable sticky situations in a client journey becomes so much easier”.

I have evolved my style and approach over the years, but I still hold that advice close to my heart. It is so critical to build strong relationships with clients; humor (and that too, self-deprecating humor) can be a great tool to strengthen these relationships.

3. It makes you more human

In the day-to-day rut, people get stereotyped by their roles, functions or organizations. People yearn to perform better in the technical roles; but ignore the possibility of bringing humor to the workplace. Especially in leadership roles, when one takes that extra effort to bring humor and fun to the workplace, the effects are phenomenal. The connect you can build with your team significantly improves when you crack a few jokes. People see the “human” side of you (and not just your role/designation/title). You find it a lot easier, to inspire and lead a team that sees and appreciates your “human” side.

4. Improves productivity

It is widely known that the “engaged” employees are extremely productive. Humor is a great way to get the people excited, and to even unleash their creativities. (Check out some research and related notes here ).

5. Helps manage stress

I go for yoga classes and meditation sessions on-and-off. One thing I am often told in these sessions is to “smile, consciously”. Most of the attendees are focused (and slightly stressed) in making sure that we follow the instructions properly, do the exercise accurately…and pray that results follow soon. In the process, we lose the joy of actually going through the sessions. And I have noticed that whenever I force myself to smile, I actually find the sessions more enjoyable, and even easier to complete. Just imagine the possible implications…if your team members are smiling, having fun, all the time in their work.

I would love to hear about “fun” incidents at your workplace, and how it helped your organization. Do share your comments.