Leader humor across levels

Abstract

Leaders use humor. This humor has real effects and has been a topic of scholarly interest. We review and interpret this literature though the lens of leader hierarchical level (front-line managers versus senior executives), enumerating intriguing research possibilities and practical implications. We know much more about the humor of front-line leaders than executives, and much more about benefits than risks of leader humor. Not only are the risks and benefits likely to be amplified for executives, but they are qualitatively different due to the differential reach of executive leadership. In terms of enacting humor, the more diverse set of observers and stakeholders for executive leaders versus front-line managers creates additional challenges and a narrower window for successful use of humor.

Keywords: CEO; Executive leadership; Humor; Leadership; Strategic leadership; TMT.