UpFront - April/May 2007

Laugh Your Way to the Bank

Adding a dose of humor to your workplace can boost your bottom line

by Nancy Mann Jackson

If April Fool's Day is the only time you hear laughter in your workplace, maybe it's time to lighten up. Though some traditionalists would say work isn't supposed to be fun (that's why it's called work), creating a culture that encourages humor can actually influence your bottom line.

"Corporate cultures that embrace humor are also embracing team spirit, creativity, productivity and better health," says Shannon McDevitt, founder of Just Humor Me, a company that offers custom-designed interactive programs and games to help businesses develop and maintain fun and civility in the workplace and create a healthier, more productive work environment.

"All of these things translate into bigger profits," McDevitt says. "And while a good sense of humor doesn't guarantee good character or ethics, the absence of it often indicates underlying problems with morale, service or integrity."

If you're ready to relieve stress and increase productivity by adding a little humor to your workplace, McDevitt suggests starting with these tips:

Be sincere. You can't fake fun; instead, create genuine reasons for people to smile.

Be inclusive. Make an effort to include all employees in your fun and never laugh at someone's expense.

Communicate. Ask employees for suggestions on how to improve morale (and be ready for anything). You're sure to get at least a few good ideas.

Be creative. The ideas are endless: Add cartoons to boring documents, create an office mascot, be generous with praise and recognition, and stage inter-office contests.

NFIB.com
Find more creative ways to increase productivity in your workplace in "Employee Reviews and Motivation" in the "HR" section at www.NFIB.com/toolsandtips.