Cracking Up or Cracking Down? Humor in Job Interviews

Is Humor Acceptable in a Job Interview?

Imagine this: A recruiter asks, "How long were you in your last role?" and the applicant replies, "My biggest weakness is listening." Funny? Perhaps. But if you were the recruiter, you might not be laughing.

Today, we're exploring the use of humor in job interviews: when it's okay to joke, why demonstrating a sense of humor might be beneficial, and how to do it effectively.

Is Joking Appropriate During an Interview?

The short answer: It depends.

This might seem unhelpful, but with a few guidelines, you can let your personality shine without making a misstep or giving the wrong impression.

First, understand the different types of humor. It's more than just telling jokes. The Academy of Management identifies four main types of humor in the workplace:

• Affiliative humor: Sharing lighthearted, relatable stories to connect with people.
• Self-enhancing humor: The ability to laugh at your own quirks.
• Aggressive humor: Using insults or put-downs (avoid this).
• Self-defeating humor: Laughing at yourself in a way that undermines your confidence.

Affiliative humor is likely the safest bet for a job interview. Self-enhancing humor (a mildly embarrassing but inconsequential personal story) could also work.

How Important is a Sense of Humor in an Interview?

There are advantages and disadvantages to using humor in an interview. If done well, it can create a connection, making you more likable and memorable. A Harvard Business Review study found that top-performing executives were twice as likely to use humor, suggesting that humor is associated with success and emotional intelligence. Many companies value a sense of humor because it fosters belonging, reduces stress, and improves the work environment, leading to greater efficiency.

However, joking can also backfire. At best, you might appear unprofessional. At worst, you could offend someone and lose the job opportunity. There is such a thing as too much humor, and definitely such a thing as the wrong kind of humor.

Knowing the difference can be tricky. Follow these dos and don'ts to determine if humor is suitable in your next job interview.

Dos and Don'ts for Using Humor in an Interview

Don't…

• Tell memorized jokes: Your job interview isn't the time for your knock-knock joke collection. Avoid rehearsed jokes; it will likely be obvious. Don't tell a joke just for the sake of it. In fact, standard jokes might not be the best approach. Instead, let the conversation flow naturally and find a place for a relevant, witty comment. Sharing a funny, real-life story can help you sound genuine.
• Be crass or crude: A job interview is not the place for inappropriate jokes or stories. Even bathroom humor is off-limits. You're trying to demonstrate professionalism, and such jokes send the wrong message.
• Make a joke at the company’s expense: Avoid making jokes that could be interpreted as critical of the company. It's too risky and could ruin your first impression. It's also best to avoid joking about past employers.
• Get into politics or religion: When trying to be funny, steer clear of sensitive topics. It's easy to offend someone when discussing politics, religion, gender, race, disability, or sexual orientation. Stick to safer subjects like your favorite food or a funny pet story.

Do…

• Consider your industry: Some industries are more receptive to humor than others. If you're interviewing for a job as a TV reporter or teacher, humor might be a valuable asset. However, if you're applying to a hospital or life insurance company—industries dealing with serious matters—humor might not be appropriate. Research the company and its values to help you decide if a joke is worth the risk.
• Read the room: Is the interviewer smiling and using a lighthearted tone? If so, they'll probably appreciate a similar approach from you. Or is the atmosphere serious and businesslike? In that case, match their tone.
• Be strategic: Use humor to support the key points you want the hiring team to remember. For example, share how you've used humor to defuse tense situations or motivate team members. For instance: "In my previous role, many coworkers appreciated the 'memes' channel I created on Slack. It boosted morale and strengthened team bonds." This is a good strategy, especially if you don't consider yourself naturally funny.
• Practice: A friend or family member—ideally someone familiar with the company—can help you prepare with a mock interview. They can help you gauge what kind of humor is appropriate and how much is too much. When in doubt, err on the side of caution.

Let Your Humor Reflect What You Have to Offer

Remember, you are more than just your sense of humor. Unless you're a comedian seeking representation, your ability to tell jokes isn't the primary reason you're being hired. Any humor you use should enhance and support the other skills, knowledge, and qualities you bring to the table. By keeping your goals in mind, you can effectively use humor during a job interview.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I gauge if humor is appropriate during my interview?

Pay attention to the interviewer's demeanor and the company culture. If they use light-hearted language or jokes, it may signal that some humor could be well-received. However, always prioritize professionalism and ensure any humor is respectful and relevant.

What types of jokes are considered safe if I decide to use humor in an interview?

If you choose to incorporate humor, opt for light, self-deprecating jokes that don't touch on sensitive topics. Avoid jokes about race, religion, gender, or politics, and never make negative comments about previous employers or colleagues. The safest approach is to keep humor related to the job or the interview process itself.

Can using humor in an interview actually help my chances of getting the job?

When used appropriately, humor can help build rapport and showcase your personality, potentially making you a more memorable candidate. However, it's important to strike the right balance and ensure your use of humor doesn't overshadow your qualifications and genuine interest in the position.