When you think about what makes an effective leader, humour might not be at the top of your list. But maybe it should be….
Personally, the three Hs – humour, humility and honesty are such an underestimated part of leadership. I’m going to share with you why humour, one of my strongest leadership qualities, is such an important part of my make-up.
Finding the balance
When you tell a joke in any situation, you always run the risk of it not landing. And at work, the risk is even higher when navigating different dynamics and personality types. This is why it’s important to strike the right balance.
When I say I use humour to help me lead, I’m not saying I run around my office in a novelty wig or giving my colleagues wedgies. I’m also not going to be cracking jokes in a meeting where we’re discussing restructuring or profit loss. But will I quote ‘want me to rap to life the mood a bit’ from Season 3 of Love Island, to make my team laugh and lighten the mood in the office? Absolutely!
Not everyone is comfortable with using humour in the workplace. So, if that’s you, don’t feel like you have to become a comedian to become the best leader. I’m not claiming to be the next Issa Rae, but I’ve always had a humorous streak, even as a child. This is something woven in my DNA, I’m just finally embracing it and using it as an authentic leadership strength.
Stress release
Humour is associated with happiness, and I use humour to make life more pleasant for my team and my colleagues. Working in communications can be hard, tiring, and stressful. We’re often on the front line of serious situations and crisis, which can add to our emotional wellbeing.
My sense of humour usually leads to a positive reaction…..laughter. According to the Mayo Clinic, laughter is a great medicine for stress release. In the short term, it can stimulate organs, activate, and relieve your stress response and soothe tension. In the long term, it can improve your immune system, relieve pain, increase personal satisfaction, and improve your mood. So even though one of my team mantras is ‘we do PR, not ER’, my banter may be beneficial to their wellbeing.
It’s my legacy.
Bringing humour into the workplace has many positive benefits. It helps create better relationships, greater transparency, and provides a sense of belonging. I use my humour intelligently and selectively. Being able to laugh at myself, takes away my team’s fear of failing and imposter syndrome.
I’ve been told on numerous occasions by people I have managed that even when work hasn’t been the best, I have made it more enjoyable by creating a safe, pleasant, and laughter-filled space for them.
I may not change the world, but I can hold my head high and say that I lead with passion, humour, honesty, make people smile and always take people on a positive, entertaining journey.
Connect with Mammy on LinkedIn.
Mammy was awarded a place on The Xec. Leadership Scheme for UK-based Black, Asian, Mixed Race, and Ethnic Minority PR and comms pros. She is part of the class of 2024. During her time on The Xec. he is being mentored by Harriet Otoo.