The HR Huddle HR, We Have a Problem - HR is no laughing matter - or is it? The strategic power of humor in HR to build trust in the workplace
In this episode of HR, We Have a Problem, Teri Zipper and guest Peter “The Culture Doctor” Phelan, Founder and CEO of ValuesCulture, explore the powerful role of humor in HR. Through personal anecdotes and scientific insights, Peter illustrates how incorporating appropriate humor can accelerate stakeholder relationships and make complex HR topics more engaging and accessible, while maintaining credibility and professionalism.
Key points covered include:
↪️ Leveraging humor strategically in professional settings requires an understanding of context and timing, with Peter sharing how his early experiences transitioning from academic presentations to Bloomberg Radio helped shape his approach to "edutainment" in corporate environments.
↪️ In an era of increasing AI adoption and workplace uncertainty, humor serves as a powerful differentiator and relationship builder, helping HR professionals become indispensable through stronger human connections with their stakeholders.
↪️ HR professionals who don't consider themselves naturally funny can still effectively incorporate humor by starting with curated content like relevant cartoons and gradually building confidence to share their own relatable workplace experiences.
↪️ The "Trust Equation" framework demonstrates how strategic use of humor can enhance professional relationships by building credibility and intimacy while reducing perceived self-orientation, creating stronger connections with stakeholders.
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Teri Zipper
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Peter Phelan
ValuesCulture