Years ago, I was recommended by Dun & Bradstreet to teach a presentational skills class to all employees of a very large bank in Manhattan. It was a really big opportunity and the head of HR asked if I could give her a 20-minute preview of how I would be teaching. I eagerly prepared 20 minutes and met her in an elegant conference room at their facilities.
My style is interactive, engaging and fun. That’s how people learn. However after my 20 minutes the head of HR leaned across the polished table and said, “I think there’s been a mistake. These people are not here to have fun, they’re here to learn.”
I was speechless. It’s like a first-grade teacher reminding her class that it’s now time to learn serious things so recess and fun are out of the question.
I’ve never forgotten that experience, and have never let it stop me from making sure everyone has fun when I have the privilege of working with a group. And in my latest book, I remind people to make things fun. People are much more engaged when they’re relaxed and will be more creative, more involved and easier to work with.
In an article by Adrian Gostick and Scott Christopher, research indicates that when leaders lighten up and create a fun workplace, there is a significant increase in the level of employee trust, creativity and communication — leading to lower turnover, higher morale and a stronger bottom line.
Fun can include just about anything, from bringing pets to work, organizing team trivia or a volleyball game, launching paper airplanes on the lawn, taking time out for exercise or asking folks what they would like in order to bring more joy to work. Finding ways to add a little fun in the day may feel a little uncomfortable, and if so start small. If you can add even one additional smile, you’re on the right track!
