No, That's Not Funny - Not in Late-Night Monologues, Not in the Office

 Anyone who has worked in public relations or marketing should have down cold one reality: Humor is a risk. 

That's because what's experienced as funny is subjective. One person's ha-ha can be offensive to another. 

Sure, humor's quite effective in getting, holding and growing attention. There, for instance, was the impact of the Super Bowl Hyundai Ryanville commercial. 

So, it's often worth taking the risk. Until now. That's what late-night comics, office workers and members of social clubs are finding out. Axios puts it this way:

"In a hyper-partisan world, comedy targeting politics risks alienating sizable audiences or drawing ire from people in power."

Already the Trump administration has lambasted Jimmy Fallon and Jimmy Kimmel. Stephen Colbert's program will be no more. Some speculate Colbert is out not primarily for financial reasons but because the jokes might have assessed to be at the expense of the current administration.

In these tense times about the economy and that Black Swan phenomenon Generative AI, even a lightness of spirit can become a liability. 

In my coaching I have clients tell me they assumed that the interview had gone well. After all, there were some quips and banter. Then no offer. The conclusion was that earnestness is the safer ethos for interviews. In evaluating AI-conducted interviews the check list I was given included the ability of the applicant to remain on point, in a focused but relaxed engaging manner. 

Those fortunate to pass the interview and receive a job offer will have to adjust to the current sensitivity about even witty remarks in the office. Again, humor is subjective. Rats in the workplace can carry tales back to superiors that such-and-such an employee was "making fun" of them. Organizational culture has taken on the tone and content of gravitas. 

Rattled, maybe the first time since you started working? Faith-based Coaching. Special expertise with transitions, reskilling and aging. Psychic/tarot readings, upon request. Complimentary consultation with Jane Genova (Text 203-468-8579, janegenova374@gmail.com). Yes, test out the chemistry.