We want work to be fun. And not just for fun’s sake—many people do their best work when they’re relaxed and feeling good. Humor can contribute to this vibe; laughter builds a sense of camaraderie ...

So you’re the cut-up at the copy machine? Don’t be so sure that your coworkers aren’t laughing behind your back. While several “how to get ahead” websites and books recommend humor as a way to win ...

Cracking jokes in the office might seem like a shortcut to likability or leadership. But new research shows that humor at work is a gamble, and the costs of a flop are often greater than the rewards ...

The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their ...

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Covering all things related to communication skills. Aug 25, 2025, 04:40pm EDT “Start with a joke,” is one of the most poorly ...