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You think that's funny?

Entrepreneur, Dec, 2002 by Chris Sandlund

Richard Brenner is a cutup. The founder and CEO of 42-employee Cupertino, California, interim management firm The Brenner Group Inc. regularly uses humor to lighten up a room. But he recognizes there are times when it's not appropriate.

Once, Brenner watched in horror as a client used a joke while announcing a layoff. "Recession is when you're losing a job," said the client. "Depression is when I'm losing my job." No one laughed.

"Know your audience," says Brenner. That applies as much to the situation as to the individual. Some people are just too tightly wound.

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Polite conversation doesn't include sex, religion or politics. Jokes on those subjects are dangerous. And when faced with a tragedy, take a cue from David Letterman in the wake of 9/11, Drop the comedy and acknowledge the event with the solemnity it deserves.

Humor can also become a distraction when you're trying to get an important message across. That said, don't get gun shy. Use your gut. Body language, attire and facial expression give you clues to people's receptivity to humor. Practice makes your timing better--but remember that a joke is not always appropriate.

Business writer CHRIS SANDLUND (csandlund@entrepreneur.com) works out of Cold Spring, New York.

Business Services Industry

You think that's funny?

Entrepreneur, Dec, 2002 by Chris Sandlund

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