HBR IdeaCast How Many Managers Does It Take to Change a Lightbulb?
Feb 2, 2021
Jennifer Aaker is a behavioral scientist and professor at Stanford, and Naomi Bagdonas is an executive coach. Together, they explore how humor can boost morale and engagement in the workplace, even during stressful times. They discuss different humor styles and how to use humor effectively without overdoing it. The conversation delves into what makes things funny, the importance of context in humor, and how leaders can foster a connected environment through laughter, all while avoiding common pitfalls.
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Humor Styles
- People's humor styles fall into four categories: stand-up, sweetheart, sniper, and magnet.
- Each style has its own characteristics, such as boldness (stand-up), affiliation (sweetheart), sarcasm (sniper), and positive charisma (magnet).
Risks of Humor Styles
- Humor styles carry different risks in the workplace; stand-ups/snipers risk offending, while sweethearts/magnets may self-deprecate.
- Gender differences exist, with men often identifying as stand-ups/snipers and women as sweethearts/magnets.
Benefits of Humor at Work
- Using humor at work, even if not "good" humor, can improve respect, perceived competence and confidence.
- Leaders with a sense of humor have more satisfied, engaged, and motivated teams.
