Forced fun at work

Interesting post from Douglas Rushkoff's blog talking about the concept of companies attempting to force fun into the workplace in order to boost morale.

Rushkoff says that this is akin to rewarding kids with dessert if they eat their veggies... you're simply reinforcing the fact that their jobs suck, and rewarding them for surviving. His post is in response to this article from the Providence Buisiness News about a company that has planned "spontaneous" fun twice a week for 10-15 minutes.

I have mixed feelings about Rushkoff's take on the issue. On the one hand, I agree that "forced fun" really isn't that effective, or at least fun that isn't in some way related to the work, workers or the jobs they do. Mandating spontenaity is just stupid.

But, being an improv performer, and having facilitated my share of fun, interesting workshops, I definitely think there is a time and place for humor. And, I guess I'd rather err on the side of having "too much" fun, than not enough. But that's just me.

Rushkoff that the real fun needs to come from the work being done... to which I say there are some jobs that just aren't fun and never will be. There's a fine balance between funny and hokey, and not everyone can pull it off. Perhaps that's what my next calling will be... humor consultant.

Ooh, I like the sound of that.

Email me at gradke at gmail dot com if your company can benefit from an injection of humor in the workplace. My team of comedy consultants will work with your company to have some fun, increase morale and, in turn, develop a more positive work environment. Let MONKEY BUSINESS® loose on your company, and see how funny work can be.
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