In today’s workplace, humor is moving from icebreaker to leadership skill. According to Tony Kong, professor at the Leeds School of Business and a leading expert on workplace humor, jokes at work are about much more than laughs.
Kong’s latest research, published in the Journal of Management Studies, draws on six studies and more than 1,000 participants. The findings show that whether humor helps or harms depends less on the punchline itself and more on the perceived intent—whether it’s about inclusion and trust, or about status and control.
Kong says humor is not just a way to lighten the mood—it can shape trust, collaboration and even career success. But intent matters.
“Humor is a life skill. It’s great at a party, and it’s great in a meeting. But it’s not just about being funny. It’s about understanding your audience, your timing and your intent,” Kong said.
A joke can land very differently depending on how it’s received and what motive it conveys, he added.
“The same joke can land very differently depending on who tells it, who hears it, when and how it’s told, and what the perceived motive is,” he said. Kong sees humor as a double-edged sword: A well-placed joke, particularly one that reveals self-awareness, can be disarming and memorable. However, a bad joke or overuse of jokes can undermine one’s credibility and create awkwardness.
“Answering ‘What’s your greatest weakness?’ with a bit of humor can work—if it shows authenticity and emotional intelligence,” Kong said.
Looking ahead, Kong believes professionals who can balance levity with emotional intelligence will stand out.
“When done right, humor can increase trust, boost creativity, promote emotional well-being and even facilitate conflict resolution,” he said.
