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A question I often get asked is, "How do you know if you are going to cross the line with your workplace humor?" To which I reply, "If security escorts you from the premises, well, that might be a red flag."
Of course you can never be 100% certain - it depends on the timing, the context, and your relationship with the people in the room. Here are a few indicators that may suggest you are about to cross the line:
- Is the humor coming from your heart and with good-intentions or are you trying to score points by embarrassing someone? Be honest!
- What is your gut telling you? Really telling you.
- Does it pass "The Mom Test": Would you say it to your Mom?
- "The Whisper Rule": Do you have to whisper it to a few people when there are other people in the room?
- Do you have to preface it with a qualifying statement such as, "I'm not racist, BUT did you hear..."
- Will you feel the need to quickly backpedal with a post-qualifying statement, such as, "I'm JUST kidding!"
It comes down to common sense and common courtesy. And considering the enormous benefits and advantages of using humor at work, don't let your fear of the very occasional misstep prevent you or your team from embracing a more fun-filled, humor-filled work environment!
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