How laughter can improve your career

Making people laugh is a fantastic way to build rapport and improve your career. So, when and how can you use humour to your advantage, and what happens if you’re not the office comedian?

How laughter at work can help your career
Knock knock. Who’s there? Promotion!

Did you know that cracking up a room with a good natured and well-timed joke creates the impression of confidence and competence in an office setting? Studies even show that those with a great sense of humour were more likely to be elected group leader than those who were a bit more reserved*. So let your inner comedian shine, just be sure to know your audience and what’s appropriate – see next point!

Don’t let it backfire

It goes without saying that humour in the office is a mine field. Jokes that cause offence are going to work against you and limit your career progression, so if you can’t read a room then find another way to create a good impression. Also ease up on the self-deprecating humour. A little makes you approachable, too much and people will start to question your competence.

Lead by example

As a leader you don’t have to be the funniest person in the room, you simply need to create a forum for laughter. Include 5 minutes of fun in team meetings and mix up agendas with creative activities. By welcoming day-to-day laughter you’ll ignite morale and create a culture of smiling productivity.

Is your super funny?

You don’t have to be the office comedian to have super success. You just need to follow the super basics and you’ll set yourself up to laugh all the way to retirement. Got a question about your super? Give us a call on 1300 033 166 or online message us and we’ll get back to you.

* https://knowledge.wharton.upenn.edu/article/using-humor-in-the-office-when-it-works-when-it-backfires/

Any general advice has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before you act on any general advice, you should consider whether it is appropriate to your individual circumstances. Before making any decision, you should obtain and read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determination or call us on 1300 033 166 for copies of these documents. You may wish to consult an adviser before you make any decisions relating to your financial affairs. To speak with an Adviser from TelstraSuper Financial Planning call 1300 033 166.