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Succeeding in a job interview is not always easy. (Ab)using “humorbragging” would nevertheless definitively convince a recruiter. Explanations.
To convince in an interview, do you often pull out the empathetic and flexible candidate card? Bad idea. According to researchers, we should instead resort to “humorbragging”.
What is “humorbragging”?
If the “ideal” formula for a successful interview does not exist, researchers from Imperial College London, the University of Virginia and Stanford affirm that using “humorbragging” on a date would make it possible to seduce more recruiters.
But what is it ? It would be a contraction between the words “humor” (humor) and “bragging” (the act of bragging), details the study.
A tasty mix of laughter and pretension, which would enhance humor.in self-promotional communications” the experts further explain.
The end goal? Appear jovial and competent in the eyes of the recruiter.
“This approach allows individuals to showcase their skills and accomplishments in a way that is perceived as more sympathetic and less threatening“, explains Jieun Pai, author of the study, to the media PsyPostbefore adding “This suggests that incorporating a light, humorous angle when discussing one’s accomplishments can make a person more appealing and approachable, without diminishing the perception of one’s competence.“.
Tests that proved conclusive
To arrive at these conclusions, the research team based itself on four studies.
The first experiment focused on candidate CVs.
The scientists sent 345 companies a classic CV, recounting a person’s experiences and skills, as well as a second CV, similar, but tinged with humor.
Result ? The humorous CV was much more appreciated than the other.
Another test which proved conclusive: during an interview, the “funny” candidate had a greater chance of being hired than the others because he seemed “warmer” and “more qualified”.
The benefit of laughter at work
Beyond traditional job interviews, humor proves to be a weapon of choice at work. Laughing and making others laugh creates social bonds. You can get to know each other through humor and be more united. In addition, employees who laugh with each other move forward more often together towards the same objectives. Finally, humor helps you resolve problems and approach your interactions with others in a calmer manner.
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