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The value of 'risk-free' humour

Writer's picture: Shiv  MartinShiv Martin

Updated: Jan 29

Can humour ever be used effectively to reduce tensions in meetings?



The shortest distance between two people is laughter - Victor Borge
The shortest distance between two people is laughter - Victor Borge

# Table of Contents


1. Introduction: The Role of Humour in Conflict Resolution

2. What Is Risk-Free Humour?

- Definition and Guidelines

3. Why Humour Matters in the Workplace

- Breaking the Ice

- Boosting Retention

- Building Connection

4. Humour in Conflict Situations

- The Power of Humour to Navigate Difficult Topics

- Unlocking Creativity Through Laughter

5. Addressing Common Concerns

- Will Humour Undermine Your Authority?

- Using Humour Wisely: Best Practices

6. The Benefits of Humour in Professional Settings

- Enhancing Team Building and Collaboration

- Improving Conflict Resolution Outcomes

7. Conclusion: Making Meetings Enjoyable

8. Q&A: Your Workplace Mediation and Conflict Resolution Questions Answered

- Can humour really help in workplace mediation?

- How do I know if humour is appropriate in a workplace setting?

- Can using humour make conflict resolution more effective?

9. Further Reading: Recommended Resources

- “More Funny, More Money” by Marty Wilson In my work, I often facilitate some pretty heavy meetings and mediations. I work in the spaces of workplace conflict, regulatory complaints, investigations, and conciliation. There's nothing funny about the content of the work I do, but I know that laughter can go a long way towards making conflict work more effective and enjoyable.


Let’s be honest—most of the people around my table as a conflict resolver usually don't want to be there. They’re worried, apprehensive, or just plain annoyed. That’s why I’ve made it my mission to make difficult conversations not only more constructive but also more enjoyable. One thing I’ve noticed along the way is that risk-free humour (when used well, of course) can make a huge difference. It has the power to transform the effectiveness and productivity of meetings while building connection.


What Is Risk-Free Humour?


Let me be clear: humour should never target an individual or be based on race, sex, religion, or physical attributes. Risk-free humour is about creating lighthearted moments without crossing any lines or making anyone uncomfortable.


Another big disclaimer - humour is a hard skill to master. Until you are a confident facilitator and speaker, please do not try and add humour to your presentations. It is a high risk, high reward strategy and I do not recommend it for dispute resolution professionals, trainers or team leaders who are just beginning their journey in facilitating and leading conversations.


Why Humour Matters


Humour is often overlooked in the workplace, especially in formal settings like meetings. But it can have a profound impact:


  • Breaking the Ice: A touch of humour can create a more relaxed atmosphere, helping people feel comfortable sharing ideas and opinions. This leads to more productive discussions.

  • Boosting Retention: Ever noticed how you remember the safety videos on flights that use humour? That’s because humour grabs our attention and makes information stick.

  • Building Connection: Laughing together fosters camaraderie and connection, which strengthens working relationships and creates a more positive environment.


Humour and Conflict

Even in serious discussions, humour can work wonders. When handled carefully, it can reduce tension and make difficult topics easier to navigate. Humour acts as a buffer, allowing people to express differing opinions without feeling judged or attacked. This paves the way for more respectful and constructive conversations.


Unlocking Creativity

I’ve also found that humour can unlock creativity and innovation. When people are relaxed and in a positive frame of mind, they’re more likely to think outside the box. This is especially useful when teams are working through conflicts or brainstorming solutions.


Will being funny undermine your authority?


Despite popular opinion, using humour thoughtfully in professional settings can enhance your credibility by showcasing authenticity and building genuine connections. When you use humour in a way that aligns with your personality and respects the context, it helps others see you as approachable and relatable. This fosters trust and connection, key ingredients for strong professional relationships. At the same time, balancing humour with clarity and respect ensures that your message remains impactful and is taken seriously. The right touch of humour can humanize your delivery while reinforcing, rather than undermining, your authority.


Use Humour Wisely


Of course, humour needs to be appropriate and respectful. Misdirected humour can offend and undermine trust, so it’s always worth testing your jokes on a close colleague or friend before using them in a professional setting.


Why It’s Worth It


Humour has significant benefits for team building, collaboration, conflict resolution, and creativity. So next time you’re planning a meeting, don’t forget to add a touch of humour to the agenda.

If you’re keen to learn more, I highly recommend More Funny, More Money by Marty Wilson—it’s a brilliant read on this very topic!


Q&A:


Your Workplace Mediation and Conflict Resolution Questions Answered


1. Can humour really help in workplace mediation?


Absolutely! Risk-free humour can create a more relaxed atmosphere during workplace mediation sessions, making it easier for participants to open up and share their perspectives. It helps diffuse tension and fosters a sense of connection, which is essential for finding resolutions to workplace conflict.


2. How do I know if humour is appropriate in a workplace setting?


The key is to keep it respectful and inclusive. Avoid jokes that target individuals or touch on sensitive topics. If you’re unsure, test your humour on a trusted colleague or friend first. In conflict resolution, humour should build bridges, not barriers.


3. Can using humour make conflict resolution more effective?


Yes, humour can make conflict resolution more productive by reducing defensiveness and encouraging creative problem-solving. When people are at ease, they’re more likely to engage in constructive discussions and explore innovative solutions to workplace challenges.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Shiv Martin is a nationally accredited mediator, practicing solicitor, conciliator, decision-maker, and certified vocational trainer. With extensive experience in complex dispute resolution, stakeholder engagement, and team building across business, community, and governmental sectors, Shiv brings over a decade of unique and diverse expertise in Law, Management, Vocational Education, and Mediation.




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  • What factors determine the booking of mediation services and how do you ensure the best chance of resolution in diverse dispute contexts?
    My mediation services can be booked according to the size of the dispute at hand. I have successfully managed complex multi-party disputes spanning a number of days, and short mediations of 90 minutes. Each dispute and each party has unique needs and I will work independently with all parties and legal representatives to design the most appropriate process to ensure the best chance of resolution. I am experienced at mediating across cultures, generations and dispute contexts.
  • What is your background and experience in mediation and conciliation services?
    After over a decade as a full-time panel mediator, conciliator, decision maker and team manager for various government agencies, Commissions and Tribunals, I am now offering my mediation and conciliation services privately. I am highly experienced in managing a diverse range of disputes and adapt a flexible mediation approach following considered pre-mediation discussions with parties and their legal representatives.
  • What qualifications and experience do you bring to the table as a mediator and mediation accreditation training assessor?
    As an experienced Mediator and Recognized Mediation Accreditation training and assessor I bring to the table a high level of emotional intelligence, the technical skills of a lawyer (Over 10 years PAE) and a depth of cross-cultural and intergenerational conflict experience. I am also skilled in Mental Health First Aid and understand the importance of managing emotions and relationships in effectively managing disputes.
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