Once used as a signal to reassure peers of a safe situation, laughter is now recognized as an expression of joy with many benefits.
" First of all, on the body and mind," reveals Lionel Neveux. "Laughter releases neurotransmitters such as dopamine, endorphins and serotonin, and these substances have a direct effect on the body." Laughter has a positive effect on blood flow and muscle tension and makes a significant contribution to stress reduction and general well-being.
But that's not all! " Studies conducted by Harvard and MIT also show that laughter improves the work atmosphere, stimulates concentration, creativity, increases productivity and strengthens the sense of belonging and loyalty to the company ," says Lionel Neveux. However, in some environments, laughter can be perceived as casualness or a lack of seriousness. " The question of the authorization of laughter is then played out in its integration into the implicit norms," the expert points out.
But where do you start?
1/ Managers, potential "role models" of laughter
Laughter in the workplace is not always easy, as the comic source varies greatly from one culture to another. This complexity is accentuated in an intercultural context, often prompting caution. However, as a manager of an international team, you have a powerful lever: your own laughter! Managers play a key role in authorizing and leading by example. "By laughing themselves, the latter give implicit permission to the collective to do the same," observes Lionel Neveux. And thus normalize this practice." The initiative is therefore personal: laugh yourself before trying to make others laugh.
2/ What role for humor?
It is relevant to link laughter to humour in part, while ensuring that the latter is benevolent. "The advice to keep in mind is to 'laugh with' and not 'laugh at the expense' of others," says the specialist. Allowing jokes while ensuring that they cannot offend sensitivities contributes to the well-being and cohesion of teams.
" Don't hesitate to check with people who don't laugh at a joke, how they feel and if they have been hurt in any way," recommends Lionel Neveux. "Because this ability to manage laughter and humour can be part of leadership."
3/ Organize contexts to encourage laughter
" Organizing informal time outside the work environment can create opportunities for laughter (without clearly displaying the purpose) ," adds the specialist. And thus strengthen the sense of cohesion of teams. Some organizations even offer "rigology committees" or laughter yoga activities, to intentionally stimulate the creation of laughter with mind-body deep breathing techniques.
" In short, laughter is a valuable asset for well-being and cohesion in the company. ", concludes Lionel Neveux. And by actively promoting it, managers can create a more enjoyable and productive work environment.
