The ROI of humor in business and beyond

by Amy Carroll

When did you last laugh at work?

 

Here are several reasons humor increases our effectiveness and value in the workplace:

 

1. The power and importance of bonding

When we laugh at others’ humorous comments, it’s seen as a compliment and

a sign of respect which reinforces another ’s value. People will be more loyal and committed to a company or relationship where they feel this connection and value.

 

2. Humor creates a positive physiological response

Laughter relaxes the body and brings in oxygen. It has a direct effect

on reducing stress. It attaches positive emotions to whatever is said, creating

good associations and increasing retention of both information and

the employee.

 

3. Practicing humor develops creativity

Searching for links, connections, and opposites goes far above and beyond slapstick humor or one-liners. It can force the brain to new creative heights.  In the workplace, innovation and creativity can provide a competitive edge.

 

In Primal Leadership: Realizing the Power of Emotional Intelligence, Daniel Goleman and his co-authors spend significant resources explaining the science behind the value of laughter in the workplace, they wrote:

 

"In a neurological sense, laughing represents the shortest distance between two people because it instantly interlocks limbic systems. This immediate, involuntary reaction, as one researcher puts it, involves “the most direct communication possible between people – brain to brain – with our intellect just going for the ride, in what might be called a 'limbic lock'." pp. 10 – 11

 

Try humor and laughter – they’re the most enjoyable management tools we know!

 

Learn more about Amy Carroll’s unique coaching and communication programs at http://www.carrollcoaching.com