Leaders, in general, want to be taken seriously. I mean, who wouldn’t like to be the receiving end of respect, admiration, and okay, fine, a bit of fear? Hence, most prominent figures tend to put on a poker face and be all serious when at work.
Which is fine, but you do need to lighten up occasionally. No, seriously.
Research says that as we grow older, we tend to laugh a lot less. Some might say that this is part of growing up, and that a sober demeanour is more suitable for work. However, more and more researchers have found that laughter actually boosts confidence and creativity in the workplace.
In fact, according to two Stanford academics, laughter in the workplace can actually result in higher levels of productivity. What’s more impressive is that this study reached 1.4 million people in 166 countries.
So, why is laughter in the workplace potentially such a big deal? Let’s take a look.
The Unexpected Benefits Humour Brings
We know that laughter produces happy hormones called endorphins. But what does this have to do with the workplace?
Here’s the thing. Studies show that laughter actually has a positive effect on our immune system. As per its benefits for the workplace, laughter helps strengthen bonds between employers and employees, as well as between colleagues.
Happy employees are more likely to produce high-quality output and come up with better ideas. Hence, humour not only helps people stay healthier. It also makes them feel more connected to each other, potentially resulting in better collaboration and higher productivity.
“But I’m No Comedian.”
Okay, laughter is good for my business. But what if I’m not inherently funny?
Fortunately, researchers say that you don’t have to be a comedian. The ability to appreciate a good joke and tell a few of your own (when appropriate) will suffice.
Hence, carry on as usual when handling serious work matters. However, do remember to take a moment to share a laugh or two with your people when the moment arises.
Your employees and remote workers are bound to joke around and banter with each other, and that’s a sign that they’re getting along. You may as well laugh with them, or even venture your own witty comment if you can.
This gesture, no matter how seemingly small, can make a lot of difference to your team. Many employees appreciate having bosses who can make light of difficult situations. They’re likely to find it both reassuring and empowering, especially when they might be on the verge of giving up.
When All Else Fails…
The pandemic has made just about everyone in the world feel stressed and isolated. Seizing every opportunity to laugh out loud, especially alongside our colleagues and workers, is an easy way to improve our health and well-being in the workplace.
If it’s your first time to crack a joke in a virtual meeting, it’s natural to feel awkward and self-conscious at first. However, as you become more comfortable with your team, it’ll feel more natural with time. Alternatively, if you’re not feeling up to it, you can just encourage the more high-spirited people on your team by laughing along with everyone when they joke around.
Remote Staff has been assisting AU entrepreneurs like you build and expand business ventures with the help of remote workers from the Philippines. Since 2007, we have been providing not just great talents but also insights on how you can run your teams in the best way possible, freeing you up to focus on-and find joy or humour in – other things.
Call us today or schedule a call back and let’s get started.
Serena has been working remotely and writing content for the better part of the last decade. To date, she's written for Pepper.ph and Mabuhay Magazine, among others, and has churned out more than a thousand articles on everything from The Basics of Stock Market Investing to How to Make Milk Tea-Flavored Taho at home.
