You don’t need a Netflix special or a stand-up set at the Laugh Factory to use humor in public speaking. In fact, some of the most effective speakers use humor not to perform, but to connect. Humor breaks tension, builds rapport, and—when used strategically—makes your message stick.
So what if you’re not naturally funny? Good news: humor is a skill, not a personality trait. And yes, you can learn to use it—authentically and effectively.
Why Humor Works
Humor is one of the fastest ways to build emotional connection with your audience. It says, “I see you, I’m human too.” It drops defenses and earns attention.
Whether you’re presenting quarterly metrics, giving a keynote, or leading a workshop, humor can transform your delivery. And it doesn’t have to be stand-up-level hilarious. A small, self-aware joke or an unexpected metaphor can go a long way.
Want to know what else creates strong connection with an audience? Emotional storytelling that makes your audience care.
Humor as a Trust Builder
Letting your audience laugh with you (or even at you, just a little) can build major trust. It shows confidence and vulnerability at the same time. Think about it—who would you rather listen to: the stiff data drone or the leader who can laugh at the time she accidentally shared her screen mid-Zoom meltdown?
This approach isn’t just for TED Talks. Storytelling in business settings benefits immensely from levity. A clever analogy or a self-deprecating anecdote can take a client pitch from forgettable to memorable—and even persuasive.
How to Use Humor Authentically
You don’t need to write punchlines. Instead, try one of these low-risk, high-reward techniques:
- Relatable Frustrations: Pick a common annoyance your audience shares. (Looking at you, unmute button.)
- Surprise + Specificity: Humor often comes from the unexpected. Go weirdly specific. It’s funnier.
- Callbacks: Refer back to something you or someone else said earlier—it makes your audience feel “in on it.”
- Vulnerability: Tell a story about something awkward you did. People love a brave storyteller.
Not sure how to find or structure those stories?
Fearless Storytelling Workshops can help you build and deliver engaging stories with humor and heart—even if you don’t think you’re a “funny person.”
Humor + Purpose = Magic
The best kind of humor in public speaking isn’t just for laughs—it reveals something. A small joke can make a big insight land. A funny story can soften a hard truth. The right laugh, in the right place, can make your audience remember your message long after they forget your slides.
Want to deepen the emotional resonance and make people laugh along the way? Try combining humor with emotional hooks in storytelling for unforgettable communication.