Humor at Work: The Power of Quirky Questions

Published: Wed, 05/22/13

Inspiring Workplaces

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Humor at Work

ISSUE 489 - May 22, 2013

The Power of Quirky Questions

More and more companies are using quirky questions in their job interviews to help them gauge how candidates react to curve balls and how they think under pressure. Plus the responses can offer valuable insight into a candidate's sense of humor and ability to think creatively.

Jacquelyn Smith at Forbes compiled a list a while back of 25 Oddball Questions. A few of my favorites include: "A penguin walks through that door right now wearing a sombrero. What does he say and why is he here?", "What song best describes your work ethic?" and "Can you say Peter Pepper picked a pickled pepper and cross-sell a washing machine at the same time?"

Deep, interesting questions like these shouldn't be reserved only for job interviews! Use them as meeting openers, to launch a brainstorming session or as a fun contest for your employees or customers to come up with the best answer.

		Mike's Fun at Work Tip

Intel celebrates and welcomes their new employees by rolling out a red carpet lined with photographers on the first day of orientation. So take a page from Intel and welcome your new employees with a bit of fun and humor. Create a ritual that makes them feel part of the team and ideally something that allows them to get a proper orientation to the office (perhaps a fun guided tour with several prearranged fun stops along the way) and a proper introduction to as many employees as possible. And if you really want to score points with your new hires, do what some companies do and arrange for their spouse to be present (never, ever doubt that they're an important part of your team) and have a specific welcome gift waiting for them that reflects their personal interests.
		Quote of the Week

"The single biggest problem with communication is the illusion that it has taken place." George Bernard Shaw
		It's a Wacky World

So Intel scores some points on the humor front with their red carpet routine, but sadly at one Intel office, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, they might loose a few thousand points. An employee at the New Mexico plant is suing for harassment and abuse, alleging that employees put a "Kick Me" sign on his back, prompting colleagues and even his boss to (allegedly) taunt and kick him. More than just wacky, if true, this is downright bizarre and definitely doesn't fit the bill for safe humor. Or, well, humor period.

Inspiring Reading

Mike is quoted extensively in the Forbes piece on the importance of humor in the workplace: 10 Reasons Why Humor is a Key to Success at Work

Cost-Savings to Hear Mike Speak

Kelowna & Penticton: Several dates throughout June and July; plus the week of October 14. E-mail info@mikekerr.com for details.

Humor in Action

For a great example of a video that blends good information/content with just the right amount of humor, check out Delta Airlines new safety demo video: In-Flight Safety Video

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