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Humor That Works: The Missing Skill for Success and Happiness at Work
If you want to increase team productivity, relieve stress, and be happier at work, you could hire a bunch of workplace consultants, invest in scream therapy, and put Pharrell Williams on repeat—or you could just read Humor That Works .
Written by Andrew Tarvin, the world’s first Humor Engineer, this a business book on humor. No, that’s not an oxymoron. It really is a business book and it really is about getting better results by having more fun. Because people who use humor in the workplace are more productive, less stressed, and happier. No joke; sources included.
The goal is not to make you funnier—though that may be a side effect—but to make you effective-er. You’ll learn to develop a personal humor habit that’s not about spitting wisecracks or telling the funniest stories, but a way of seeing work in an energizing new way. You’ll build on some of the most important business skills for today’s work environment, develop techniques for leveraging humor, and take action to improve your work immediately. And you’ll have fun doing it.
There will be stories about grandmas who text, multiple mentions of milkshakes, and exactly seven references to zombies. Oh, and there will be puns. (You’ve been warned.) Looking for success and happiness at work? Discover the missing skill of Humor That Works.
Written by Andrew Tarvin, the world’s first Humor Engineer, this a business book on humor. No, that’s not an oxymoron. It really is a business book and it really is about getting better results by having more fun. Because people who use humor in the workplace are more productive, less stressed, and happier. No joke; sources included.
The goal is not to make you funnier—though that may be a side effect—but to make you effective-er. You’ll learn to develop a personal humor habit that’s not about spitting wisecracks or telling the funniest stories, but a way of seeing work in an energizing new way. You’ll build on some of the most important business skills for today’s work environment, develop techniques for leveraging humor, and take action to improve your work immediately. And you’ll have fun doing it.
There will be stories about grandmas who text, multiple mentions of milkshakes, and exactly seven references to zombies. Oh, and there will be puns. (You’ve been warned.) Looking for success and happiness at work? Discover the missing skill of Humor That Works.
222 pages, Paperback
Published April 1, 2019
85 people are currently reading
237 people want to read
About the author
Andrew Tarvin
10 books44 followersAndrew Tarvin is obsessed with efficiency. In fact, that's why he goes by Drew Tarvin, it's more efficient. As the world's first humor engineer, he teaches people how to get better results while having more fun. Combining his background as a project manager at Procter & Gamble with his experience as a stand-up comedian, he reverse-engineers the skill of humor in a way that is practical, actionable, and gets results in the workplace.
Through his company, Humor That Works, Dew has worked with more than 35,000 people at over 250 organizations, including Microsoft, the FBI, and the International Association of Canine Professionals. He is the bestselling author of three books, including Humor That Works: The Missing Skill for Success and Happiness at Work. He has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and FastCompany and his TEDx talk has been viewed more than four million times. He loves the color orange and is obsessed with chocolate.
For more, visit drewtarvin.com.
Through his company, Humor That Works, Dew has worked with more than 35,000 people at over 250 organizations, including Microsoft, the FBI, and the International Association of Canine Professionals. He is the bestselling author of three books, including Humor That Works: The Missing Skill for Success and Happiness at Work. He has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and FastCompany and his TEDx talk has been viewed more than four million times. He loves the color orange and is obsessed with chocolate.
For more, visit drewtarvin.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
January 27, 2020
Andrew Tarvin's Humor That Works (2019) is an extended look into why humor is a great vehicle for communicating and how to make that happen. It's especially intended for those of us without a funny bone. Tarvin describes himself as "the world’s first humor engineer". Through his company, Humor That Works, he teaches people how to get better results for their companies or themselves in business by having more fun. He didn't start as a funny guy. In fact, he's an engineer but in college, he started an improv group, probably realizing engineering above all other professions needed an approachable way to communicate with the masses. He found he had a knack for humor. When he tried it in work situations--at meetings and trainings--it made learning easier as well as more memorable. Because of this, and because most people appreciate the spice humor adds to group situations but have no idea how to effect it, he started his company:
"...with my team at Humor That Works, we’ve helped more than 25,000 people from more than 250 different organizations from all around the world use humor to achieve success and happiness in the workplace."
Now, he's written this book on what humor is, how to become a funny guy (or gal) and how it can help you achieve your business goals. It is a business how-to book but uses humor as the vehicle to deliver greatness:
"I’m obsessed with efficiency; I believe the word efficient should be one syllable."
"...saying, “Let’s circle back on this” when I never wanted to talk about a subject ever again."
Here are some of the thirteen chapters:
Why Choose Humor
The Skill of Humor
Humor and Execution
Humor and Communication
Humor and Connection
Humor and Leadership
Success and Happiness at Work
It's difficult to get across how wittily effective Tarvin is so I'm just going to share a few of the quotable ideas he uses in the book:
"No one is expecting your weekly status report to be hilarious. So, when you add a small joke at the end of it, or you replace your meeting summary with a haiku, or you simply smile as you walk"
"...always wanted to be somebody, but I see now I should have been more specific.” --Lily Tomlin
“Clothes make the man. Naked people have little or no influence on society.” --Mark Twain
“Laziness is nothing more than the habit of resting before you get tired.” --Jules Renard
“There is nothing better than a friend, unless it is a friend with chocolate.” --Linda Grayson
"“Honesty may be the best policy, but it’s important to remember that apparently, by elimination, dishonesty is the second-best policy.” --George Carlin
“Stay true to yourself. Never follow someone else’s path unless you’re in the woods and you’re lost and you see a path. By all means, you should follow that.” --Ellen DeGeneres
“I never met anybody who said when they were a kid, I wanna grow up and be a critic.” --Richard Pryor
“My way of joking is to tell the truth. It’s the funniest joke in the world.” --George Bernard Shaw
"...this book isn’t about being funnier: it’s about being effective-er.”
"When discussing which Row/Column to Put Data into in a Spreadsheet, quote Hamlet: “2B, or not 2B: that is the question.”
There are a bunch of how-to-succeed-in-business books but none that I can think of that focus on the importance of humor to achieve goals. This is highly recommended as one of the books to be included on your business bookshelf.
"...with my team at Humor That Works, we’ve helped more than 25,000 people from more than 250 different organizations from all around the world use humor to achieve success and happiness in the workplace."
Now, he's written this book on what humor is, how to become a funny guy (or gal) and how it can help you achieve your business goals. It is a business how-to book but uses humor as the vehicle to deliver greatness:
"I’m obsessed with efficiency; I believe the word efficient should be one syllable."
"...saying, “Let’s circle back on this” when I never wanted to talk about a subject ever again."
Here are some of the thirteen chapters:
Why Choose Humor
The Skill of Humor
Humor and Execution
Humor and Communication
Humor and Connection
Humor and Leadership
Success and Happiness at Work
It's difficult to get across how wittily effective Tarvin is so I'm just going to share a few of the quotable ideas he uses in the book:
"No one is expecting your weekly status report to be hilarious. So, when you add a small joke at the end of it, or you replace your meeting summary with a haiku, or you simply smile as you walk"
"...always wanted to be somebody, but I see now I should have been more specific.” --Lily Tomlin
“Clothes make the man. Naked people have little or no influence on society.” --Mark Twain
“Laziness is nothing more than the habit of resting before you get tired.” --Jules Renard
“There is nothing better than a friend, unless it is a friend with chocolate.” --Linda Grayson
"“Honesty may be the best policy, but it’s important to remember that apparently, by elimination, dishonesty is the second-best policy.” --George Carlin
“Stay true to yourself. Never follow someone else’s path unless you’re in the woods and you’re lost and you see a path. By all means, you should follow that.” --Ellen DeGeneres
“I never met anybody who said when they were a kid, I wanna grow up and be a critic.” --Richard Pryor
“My way of joking is to tell the truth. It’s the funniest joke in the world.” --George Bernard Shaw
"...this book isn’t about being funnier: it’s about being effective-er.”
"When discussing which Row/Column to Put Data into in a Spreadsheet, quote Hamlet: “2B, or not 2B: that is the question.”
There are a bunch of how-to-succeed-in-business books but none that I can think of that focus on the importance of humor to achieve goals. This is highly recommended as one of the books to be included on your business bookshelf.
September 12, 2022
The author points out quite humorously that we have got to focus on effectiveness rather than efficiency because we have things like "feelings" and "emotions". Humor drives effectiveness and value because it satisfies the innate human desire to do something fun. Researches and case studies suggest that humor drives individual and organizational productivity, and contributes to physical and mental health. He cautioned us about inappropriate humor that distracts, divides, or disparages people. He underscored that humor is a mindset; affiliative and self-enhancing humor is fulfilling while self-destroying and aggressive humor are damaging. He shared with us the learnable skill of understanding the medium, audience, and purpose to determine effective humor. He suggested that playing work and rebooting stress can be vital for a humorous, productive lifestyle. He eloquently described how critical thinking coupled with humor can generate insights while creative thinking coupled with humor can bring groundbreaking ideas to life. We got to know how engineering surprises and bringing up funny references can make communication effective. Humor can generate empathy and joy that can help us a long way in today's global crisis of lacking social cohesion. Leading with humor matters because humor can help the team band together through challenges and can highlight the leader's humanity. If you want to be a happy and creative person, he urged you to increase your gratitude, find happy people, and use your humor.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2020
Many work environments are serious places. Work is hard, fun and enjoyment in the workplace is not encouraged - because in many manager's eyes, fun = work not being done, or done to the highest standard.
This book sets out to prove those managers wrong - showing how introducing fun and humor into a work place actually makes staff enjoy their work and work harder, and better. Staff who look forward to work will have less time of sick, spend more time at work actually working, and be satisfied enough to want to stay.
It's a very personal book - the author writes from his personal experiences and experiments with introducing humour at work - and you will get many ideas of how to introduce it into your workplace.
If you are in a management role, and believe that your workplace could do with a humour injection - read this book!
This book sets out to prove those managers wrong - showing how introducing fun and humor into a work place actually makes staff enjoy their work and work harder, and better. Staff who look forward to work will have less time of sick, spend more time at work actually working, and be satisfied enough to want to stay.
It's a very personal book - the author writes from his personal experiences and experiments with introducing humour at work - and you will get many ideas of how to introduce it into your workplace.
If you are in a management role, and believe that your workplace could do with a humour injection - read this book!
November 24, 2022
The needed solution to a stressful work environment
Work is a huge part of our life. Work can be stressful, either we like it or we don’t.
Stress is not good for us, it makes us unproductive, unable to focus and we are unhappy both at the office and outside the office.
The productivity and distraction-free industry is making millions of dollars every year thanks to an unhealthy work environment.
The solution to some of its problem is within us.
That’s what I found out in Drew Tarvin’s book Humor that works.
It’s an easy and well structure book that, in a entertaining way, guided me through how we can improve the work environment and the relationship with our colleagues - especially the ones we don’t really get along with.
Drew Marvin was an engineer that worked in P&G. As a shy person he created within the company a new way of delivering workshops - that we all like (ahah) - that became very successful.
After leaving P&G he founded his own company, Humor That Works.
It teaches companies and individuals how to improve the workplace using humor.
Humor has been proved to be a solution that the work environment needs, in fact, with humor we can:
-Improve productivity of team by a lot
-Have a stress-free environment
-Create a connection between team member and the management
-Have a lot of fun while we are work (YEAH!)
-No need to see cats videos on youtube fellas!
Drew guides us through all the aspect of humor like what’s humor and what is not, types of humor, how to apply and how not to be fired due to a bad usage of humor.
This book made me reflect on the moments when I felt happy, relaxed, and productive at work.
I can say that in 99.99% of those moments I was smiling and/or laughing with my colleagues, even in the most difficult circumstances.
So instead of spending big bucks on all type of productivity courses, if we wanna improve our work environment, our relationships at work and especially our leadership we need humor.
Instead of spending big bucks on all types of productivity courses, we need humor to improve our work environment, our relationships at work and our leadership.
Humor is not always easy to apply, but by the end of the book Drew provides all the tools to be as cool as Dave Chapelle, Kevin Hart or Ricky Gervais.
A book worth reading (It’s just 213 pages).
Work is a huge part of our life. Work can be stressful, either we like it or we don’t.
Stress is not good for us, it makes us unproductive, unable to focus and we are unhappy both at the office and outside the office.
The productivity and distraction-free industry is making millions of dollars every year thanks to an unhealthy work environment.
The solution to some of its problem is within us.
That’s what I found out in Drew Tarvin’s book Humor that works.
It’s an easy and well structure book that, in a entertaining way, guided me through how we can improve the work environment and the relationship with our colleagues - especially the ones we don’t really get along with.
Drew Marvin was an engineer that worked in P&G. As a shy person he created within the company a new way of delivering workshops - that we all like (ahah) - that became very successful.
After leaving P&G he founded his own company, Humor That Works.
It teaches companies and individuals how to improve the workplace using humor.
Humor has been proved to be a solution that the work environment needs, in fact, with humor we can:
-Improve productivity of team by a lot
-Have a stress-free environment
-Create a connection between team member and the management
-Have a lot of fun while we are work (YEAH!)
-No need to see cats videos on youtube fellas!
Drew guides us through all the aspect of humor like what’s humor and what is not, types of humor, how to apply and how not to be fired due to a bad usage of humor.
This book made me reflect on the moments when I felt happy, relaxed, and productive at work.
I can say that in 99.99% of those moments I was smiling and/or laughing with my colleagues, even in the most difficult circumstances.
So instead of spending big bucks on all type of productivity courses, if we wanna improve our work environment, our relationships at work and especially our leadership we need humor.
Instead of spending big bucks on all types of productivity courses, we need humor to improve our work environment, our relationships at work and our leadership.
Humor is not always easy to apply, but by the end of the book Drew provides all the tools to be as cool as Dave Chapelle, Kevin Hart or Ricky Gervais.
A book worth reading (It’s just 213 pages).
February 11, 2024
This book is a masterclass in mixing mirth with the mechanics of the workplace, proving once and for all that productivity and punchlines can coexist harmoniously. Tarvin, with the precision of a stand-up comedian and the insight of a seasoned HR professional, delivers a manuscript so engaging that it's almost criminal to call it 'work-related literature'.
From the get-go, the book grabs you with its charismatic charm, much like a friendly jester might pull you into a court of corporate jests. Tarvin argues that the workplace doesn't just benefit from a little levity—it thrives on it. He ingeniously illustrates how humor can be the secret ingredient to effective communication, enhanced productivity, and an overall happier work environment. It's clear that he's not just jesting around; he's on a mission to infuse workplaces with laughter, one punchline at a time.
Navigating through the chapters is like going on a joyride—except the vehicle is your office chair, and the destination is a more fulfilled work life. Each page is peppered with puns so sharp, they could cut through the tension of any boardroom meeting. Tarvin doesn't just tell you why humor works; he shows you how to wield it with the precision of a wordsmith crafting puns in a smithy of smiles.
In "Humor That Works," anecdotes and actionable advice intermingle like two old friends sharing a laugh over coffee. The book is a toolkit for anyone looking to elevate their workplace demeanor from monotonous to hilarious, demonstrating that the pen is indeed mightier than the spreadsheet.
By the time you turn the final page, you're not just armed with strategies to make your work life more enjoyable; you're inspired to be the catalyst of change in your office culture. Tarvin's tome is a testament to the transformative power of humor, making it a must-read for professionals seeking to bring joy into their jobs without sacrificing success.
"Humor That Works" is no laughing matter—it's a serious strategy for success, cleverly disguised as a collection of comedic counsel. Andrew Tarvin proves himself to be the Shakespeare of the workplace, where all the world's an office, and all the men and women merely players with punchlines. This book is not just a light read; it's a lighthouse, guiding professionals through the fog of corporate life with the bright light of humor.
From the get-go, the book grabs you with its charismatic charm, much like a friendly jester might pull you into a court of corporate jests. Tarvin argues that the workplace doesn't just benefit from a little levity—it thrives on it. He ingeniously illustrates how humor can be the secret ingredient to effective communication, enhanced productivity, and an overall happier work environment. It's clear that he's not just jesting around; he's on a mission to infuse workplaces with laughter, one punchline at a time.
Navigating through the chapters is like going on a joyride—except the vehicle is your office chair, and the destination is a more fulfilled work life. Each page is peppered with puns so sharp, they could cut through the tension of any boardroom meeting. Tarvin doesn't just tell you why humor works; he shows you how to wield it with the precision of a wordsmith crafting puns in a smithy of smiles.
In "Humor That Works," anecdotes and actionable advice intermingle like two old friends sharing a laugh over coffee. The book is a toolkit for anyone looking to elevate their workplace demeanor from monotonous to hilarious, demonstrating that the pen is indeed mightier than the spreadsheet.
By the time you turn the final page, you're not just armed with strategies to make your work life more enjoyable; you're inspired to be the catalyst of change in your office culture. Tarvin's tome is a testament to the transformative power of humor, making it a must-read for professionals seeking to bring joy into their jobs without sacrificing success.
"Humor That Works" is no laughing matter—it's a serious strategy for success, cleverly disguised as a collection of comedic counsel. Andrew Tarvin proves himself to be the Shakespeare of the workplace, where all the world's an office, and all the men and women merely players with punchlines. This book is not just a light read; it's a lighthouse, guiding professionals through the fog of corporate life with the bright light of humor.
April 2, 2019
I like reading "business books" and the fact that this one was based on humor that works made it even more interesting to me.
The author has a degree in computer science and engineering. He started his career at Proctor & Gamble as an IT project manager. With experience in improv, he realized that people are more likely to do something if it was fun so he started adding humor to his presentations, email and started an internal blog. A few years later, he left P&G to become the world's first "humor engineer" to solve corporate problems using humor.
This book will help you improve your humor skills but not how to be funnier. The chapters are:
I. The What and Why of Humor
* Humanity's desperate need for humor
* Why choose humor
* Defining humor that works
* The skill of humor
II. The How of Humor
* Humor and execution
* Humor and thinking
* Humor and communication
* Humor and connection
* Humor and leadership
* Success and happiness at work
III. Debrief - includes "no excuses" resources
I liked this book. It was a good reminder that there are things you may not like to do but if you add fun and humor to it, you may enjoy it more or at least make it bearable. If there is something you don't like about your job, you are responsible for it ... it's up to you to either change it or change the way you think about it. This book lets you know how to make your work environment fun whether you are an employee or in a leadership role.
I also like the writing style. It was interesting, and humorous and silly at times. I'd like to read other books by this author.
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2019/04...
The author has a degree in computer science and engineering. He started his career at Proctor & Gamble as an IT project manager. With experience in improv, he realized that people are more likely to do something if it was fun so he started adding humor to his presentations, email and started an internal blog. A few years later, he left P&G to become the world's first "humor engineer" to solve corporate problems using humor.
This book will help you improve your humor skills but not how to be funnier. The chapters are:
I. The What and Why of Humor
* Humanity's desperate need for humor
* Why choose humor
* Defining humor that works
* The skill of humor
II. The How of Humor
* Humor and execution
* Humor and thinking
* Humor and communication
* Humor and connection
* Humor and leadership
* Success and happiness at work
III. Debrief - includes "no excuses" resources
I liked this book. It was a good reminder that there are things you may not like to do but if you add fun and humor to it, you may enjoy it more or at least make it bearable. If there is something you don't like about your job, you are responsible for it ... it's up to you to either change it or change the way you think about it. This book lets you know how to make your work environment fun whether you are an employee or in a leadership role.
I also like the writing style. It was interesting, and humorous and silly at times. I'd like to read other books by this author.
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2019/04...
January 8, 2020
Fantastic Book that Every Employee and Manager/Leader Should Read
Over my working life, I have read a wide variety of business books. I have to say that this is one of the most unusual ones I’ve read, but in a good way! It is a surprising combination of topics—humor and business—and this intrigued me when I saw it at my favorite book review site. The book is a great read, but do not expect any sort of dry, boring business book here. The author has made it delightfully humorous but still insightful. He was able to incorporate stories into each chapter that showed the points he was trying to make in a way that drove those points home even more than the general discussion of them (which was actually pretty awesome itself). That was very artfully done. I liked the silly drawings. He definitely models how to use humor for serious topics, both in images and in his prose. I have worked for a variety of organizations and even have run my own business. I agree with the author that humor, levity, and a little fun can go a long way in organizations if only they understood the value of it in creating a better work environment. I think both ground-level employees and leadership or management should read this book. If read and applied, this book has the potential to shape a company's culture in a positive way for all, making for happier employees who would then naturally pass this vibrancy along to customers. Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
Over my working life, I have read a wide variety of business books. I have to say that this is one of the most unusual ones I’ve read, but in a good way! It is a surprising combination of topics—humor and business—and this intrigued me when I saw it at my favorite book review site. The book is a great read, but do not expect any sort of dry, boring business book here. The author has made it delightfully humorous but still insightful. He was able to incorporate stories into each chapter that showed the points he was trying to make in a way that drove those points home even more than the general discussion of them (which was actually pretty awesome itself). That was very artfully done. I liked the silly drawings. He definitely models how to use humor for serious topics, both in images and in his prose. I have worked for a variety of organizations and even have run my own business. I agree with the author that humor, levity, and a little fun can go a long way in organizations if only they understood the value of it in creating a better work environment. I think both ground-level employees and leadership or management should read this book. If read and applied, this book has the potential to shape a company's culture in a positive way for all, making for happier employees who would then naturally pass this vibrancy along to customers. Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
April 5, 2019
Not a humor book, a business book (that has humor...and heart)
Before reading this book, I'd seen Andrew speak at a # of companies I've worked - from multi-million dollar enterprises to fast-growing startups). His new book is the perfect encapsulation of his life's work, approach, and philosophy - how to be happier, and more productive at the place we spend 1/3 of our lives.
If you've met Andrew, heard of him, or seen him speak, this book is for you. If not, this book is great too, probably better bc you won't have his voice in your head as you read it (unless you spring for the audio book).
=
"You have to be good at what you do, but you also have to be good at how you do it."
Andrew's work - and this latest book book, using humor, shows you just that. Whether you're a founder, VP, newhire, or just working on something, this book will entertain and inform you to get things done in a better way. The ideas hit home as a way to be more productive, less stressed, and happier. This is a business book, with humor.
Also, SO many nerd references. I lost count.
Before reading this book, I'd seen Andrew speak at a # of companies I've worked - from multi-million dollar enterprises to fast-growing startups). His new book is the perfect encapsulation of his life's work, approach, and philosophy - how to be happier, and more productive at the place we spend 1/3 of our lives.
If you've met Andrew, heard of him, or seen him speak, this book is for you. If not, this book is great too, probably better bc you won't have his voice in your head as you read it (unless you spring for the audio book).
=
"You have to be good at what you do, but you also have to be good at how you do it."
Andrew's work - and this latest book book, using humor, shows you just that. Whether you're a founder, VP, newhire, or just working on something, this book will entertain and inform you to get things done in a better way. The ideas hit home as a way to be more productive, less stressed, and happier. This is a business book, with humor.
Also, SO many nerd references. I lost count.
September 30, 2020
Humor has always been a part of my managerial toolbox. I believe that humor opens the mind to possibilities by clearing it of anxious thoughts. I was drawn to this book about the value and importance of humor in the workplace. One key managerial truth that the author states as a base is the a true leader/manager must be efficient with resources and the budget but to succeed one must be effective (connecting) with one's team. It is the interaction with the team that is key. And, the strategic use of proper humor is vital. The author spends time on humor and execution, thinking, communication, connection, leadership, and happiness at work. One of the truths that on which I agree is that the state of happiness is an innate one and that most people possess this as part of one's persona. External stimuli can only bring partial happiness for that emotion comes from within, This glorious book confirmed my belief that humor allows me to have joy, greater productivity and a more genuine relationships with my team. I was impressed with the breadth and depth of the impact of humor on a leader, team and organization. I encourage all professionals to read this instructional book and see your level of success increase.
December 21, 2019
Fun read on incorporating humor into work
I enjoyed this book. Not surprisingly, Andrew Tarvin writes with a great sense of humor and in a conversational tone. I didn’t find him dogmatic in his common-sense approach. This is the second humor book I’ve read recently. The other one, “You Can Be Funny and Make People Laugh” by GG Peart, was also an interesting read but focussed more on how to be funny in conversation. That book itself wasn’t funny. Tarvin’s book is funnier, including the footnotes. Tarvin also gives lots of resources and interesting and humorous links. While he did plug his business in the book, the way he did it made it acceptable. Just in terms of reading enjoyment, I give the edge to Tarvin’s book.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book via Netgalley for review purposes.
I enjoyed this book. Not surprisingly, Andrew Tarvin writes with a great sense of humor and in a conversational tone. I didn’t find him dogmatic in his common-sense approach. This is the second humor book I’ve read recently. The other one, “You Can Be Funny and Make People Laugh” by GG Peart, was also an interesting read but focussed more on how to be funny in conversation. That book itself wasn’t funny. Tarvin’s book is funnier, including the footnotes. Tarvin also gives lots of resources and interesting and humorous links. While he did plug his business in the book, the way he did it made it acceptable. Just in terms of reading enjoyment, I give the edge to Tarvin’s book.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book via Netgalley for review purposes.
May 13, 2019
I've been on a business reading kick for awhile. This book was an interesting difference. It's not the straight-up here's-how-to-work-better or a here's-how-to-manage-people book or here's-how-to-find-yourself-the-best-kind-of-job book. Instead, it's a look at how you can inject humor into the workplace from the world's first (self-proclaimed) humor engineer. His thoughts are that humor (the right kind of humor) can make a bad situation more bearable.
I wish there had been some more scientific studies backing up these claims (most were studies already published in other works). Most of the stories, especially in the early chapters, were personal stories about how Mr. Tarvin successfully used humor. Otherwise this was a very readable book which only sometimes reached a little too far in trying to also be humorous.
I wish there had been some more scientific studies backing up these claims (most were studies already published in other works). Most of the stories, especially in the early chapters, were personal stories about how Mr. Tarvin successfully used humor. Otherwise this was a very readable book which only sometimes reached a little too far in trying to also be humorous.
May 14, 2019
Finally, a funny engineer! Drew Tarvin is an engineer and he has written a funny book about being humorous at work. So, ergo, he must be a funny engineer! Do we really need to prove that humor helps at work? Sadly, we do. The world took a dark turn, somewhere around the millennium, and it hasn't been as joyous since. Drew is on a one-man funny mission to bring back the joy. Buy the book. Learn the funny. Make the world better.
May 31, 2021
This book is a fun read and is more than just about humor. It's about how to be more effective at work ("effective-er"). Drew provides concrete research-backed information about how to be happier at work and in your life by using humor. And as a bonus you'll get a few knock-knock jokes you might not know.
January 18, 2022
An entertaining read. It's not ha-ha funny, but it did succeed in making me exhale air through my nose a little faster than usual. As a fellow engineer who likes to explain stuff, I enjoyed the structured approach and found the communication chapter to be the most valuable. Just make sure you don't become TOO funny after reading this book, as you might find yourself flying too close the pun.
April 25, 2019
I loved this book so much! It gave me a ton to think about with regards to the way I approach my career. I’m very excited to share these tips with the people I work with. I’ll be recommending it to all of my colleagues as well.
May 2, 2021
Very good. I commit to be funny, use humour at work as well as home (it shows you are in control and I am a bit of a control freak, so yeah, it's win/win) plus it will reduce anxiety in daily life and! make people more keen to listen to my stories:)))
April 19, 2019
Entertaining, practical and validating that humor can really build connection. The grandma wisdom still has me laughing!
January 22, 2022
The funniest business book that I’ve read :) Although I was expecting a greater depth into the HOW of humour, the content was well structured and encouraged me to spread it more wi(L)deLy
September 11, 2025
A quick read challenging several misconceptions about humor at work and how it can help you achieve success.
February 25, 2024
The book focuses on the importance of keeping the funny at work. Couldn’t agree more. However the practical advice about how to achieve the humor that works is a bit generic.
October 26, 2022
My fav quotes (not a review):
"As Jerry Seinfeld says, “There is no such thing as an attention span. People have infinite attention if you are entertaining them.”"
"If you want to teach someone a new idea, the key is to relate it to something they already know."
"If you forget someone’s name: “Warning: system out of memory.”"
"If someone tries to mug you: “Access denied. You do not have permission to perform this action.”"
"If you fall while jogging: “Failure: runtime error.”"
"If you’re flirting with a waitress and she isn’t feeling it: “Error: unable to establish connection to server.”"
"Simply stated, the One Smile Per Hour strategy is to consciously do one activity every hour that brings a smile to your face or the face of someone else."
“We’ve had some fun tonight... considering we’re all gonna die someday.” Steve Martin
“Life is about balance. The good and the bad. The highs and the lows. The pina and the colada.” Ellen DeGeneres
"As Jerry Seinfeld says, “There is no such thing as an attention span. People have infinite attention if you are entertaining them.”"
"If you want to teach someone a new idea, the key is to relate it to something they already know."
"If you forget someone’s name: “Warning: system out of memory.”"
"If someone tries to mug you: “Access denied. You do not have permission to perform this action.”"
"If you fall while jogging: “Failure: runtime error.”"
"If you’re flirting with a waitress and she isn’t feeling it: “Error: unable to establish connection to server.”"
"Simply stated, the One Smile Per Hour strategy is to consciously do one activity every hour that brings a smile to your face or the face of someone else."
“We’ve had some fun tonight... considering we’re all gonna die someday.” Steve Martin
“Life is about balance. The good and the bad. The highs and the lows. The pina and the colada.” Ellen DeGeneres
January 2, 2020
Practical Positive Psychology
Andrew Tarvin does an excellent job presenting the joys of humour in the workplace. Not only does he make sound arguments for why, he takes a step further and shows us how.
He makes these ideas so accessible and relatable that it’s going to be hard not to apply these principles even unconsciously. It’ll be as easy as sipping milkshakes while watching Encino Man for the 100th time.
The thing I admired most is how Andrew (Drew) manages to draw upon the realm of Positive Psychology. Having just read Norman Cousins’ Anatomy of an Illness and that exploration of humour as medicine, I truly enjoyed seeing Drew’s revelation of humour as a productivity tool.
I’m sold!! Shout out to your grandma, Andrew — I can only sum up the book with, “WTF!!”
Andrew Tarvin does an excellent job presenting the joys of humour in the workplace. Not only does he make sound arguments for why, he takes a step further and shows us how.
He makes these ideas so accessible and relatable that it’s going to be hard not to apply these principles even unconsciously. It’ll be as easy as sipping milkshakes while watching Encino Man for the 100th time.
The thing I admired most is how Andrew (Drew) manages to draw upon the realm of Positive Psychology. Having just read Norman Cousins’ Anatomy of an Illness and that exploration of humour as medicine, I truly enjoyed seeing Drew’s revelation of humour as a productivity tool.
I’m sold!! Shout out to your grandma, Andrew — I can only sum up the book with, “WTF!!”
April 27, 2019
Loved this book. I know I am biased, having worked with Drew. But, I consider it a must-have for survival in the modern workplace (and, frankly, everywhere else). Whether one is leading or following or staying afloat, Drew has tips for becoming more effective by employing humor strategically. Entertaining and informative!
May 13, 2019
One of the best books on prostate health I've ever read
Actually there were only minor references to prostate health. To be totally honest there were zero prostate health references. But it is an excellent book on practical ways that humor can make your life and work better. Well done, Drew! Looking forward to your next book . . . on prostate health.
Actually there were only minor references to prostate health. To be totally honest there were zero prostate health references. But it is an excellent book on practical ways that humor can make your life and work better. Well done, Drew! Looking forward to your next book . . . on prostate health.
April 2, 2019
Do you want a tool to make you a better leader?
Pick up this book! I was so impressed by Andrew’s wealth of knowledge on humor and how to easily apply it to the workplace. This is the type of book that you keep at an arms reach so you can reference it often.
Pick up this book! I was so impressed by Andrew’s wealth of knowledge on humor and how to easily apply it to the workplace. This is the type of book that you keep at an arms reach so you can reference it often.
December 7, 2019
To much why. Not enough how
Didn't learn much on the how of humor.
Some very good tips on conversational strategies. Hence the 4 stars
Good for people who think humour is unnecessary in the workplace
Didn't learn much on the how of humor.
Some very good tips on conversational strategies. Hence the 4 stars
Good for people who think humour is unnecessary in the workplace
September 9, 2020
Wow! HUMOR is HUMAN
I am amazed by the science involved in humor and the benefits we can reap out of it.
Great work by the author to present the humor concepts and action steps in a sequential manner.
Highly recommended read.
I am amazed by the science involved in humor and the benefits we can reap out of it.
Great work by the author to present the humor concepts and action steps in a sequential manner.
Highly recommended read.
February 16, 2021
Great Resource
I really enjoyed this book. The author does a great job of explaining how humor can impact the bottom line and then gives guidance on how to add humor to your work.
I really enjoyed this book. The author does a great job of explaining how humor can impact the bottom line and then gives guidance on how to add humor to your work.
April 27, 2019
Humor That Works is a interesting book that reminds us of we have some fun at what we do that it can change our perspective. I enjoyed the writing style and the author's ideas.
May 24, 2019
This the first time I come across a business book about humor. Very interesting concepts and researches. I truly believe that humor is an essential part of our life otherwise the world would be boring and we would be in the way to become simply robots! The author provides multiple ways of applying humor in different business and life situations. Sometimes it is an interesting approach like in the example of quoting Shakespeare in different business situations. Humor definitely helps to look at things from another angle. Can we learn how to use humor in our day to day lives and working situations? Read this book and find your way!
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