Should I Make Jokes in an Interview? Yes and No—Here’s Why

Job interviews are nerve-wracking. Instead of giving in to your nerves, you might want to make a few jokes for an interview to lighten the mood. But job interview jokes are also risky, especially at the wrong time or about a sensitive issue.

So, should you make jokes for an interview?

Why You Should

The job search and interview process doesn't need to be serious all the time. Making job interview jokes benefits you for several reasons.

1. Relieves the tension

   Feeling tense at a job interview is natural because you want to do well. But when you can't control your nerves, you're more likely to fumble while answering the interview questions. A few bad jokes for an interview can relieve some of the pressure.

   "Bad" jokes for an interview don't poke fun at others and are the kind that all can laugh at. An example of a bad joke for an interview is, "Why did the invisible man turn down the job offer? Because he couldn't see himself doing it!"

2. Shows your personality

   By making a few job interview jokes, you can tell the interviewer that you're a positive and enthusiastic person. According to studies, a sense of humor can also be a way to help enhance your leadership, especially if you're applying for a leadership role. Being the butt of your own jokes for an interview can also show that you aren't afraid to laugh at yourself and your flaws.

3. Helps you stand out

   The hiring manager might have already interviewed countless others before you for the day. Clever job interview jokes can help you stand out. It can also increase your chances of being called back by the company.

   While funny responses and job interview jokes can make you memorable, they can also look out of place.

Why You Shouldn't

Don't forget that job interviews are still professional settings. Hiring managers expect you to be respectful and formal. You may also need to consider other effects of making job interview jokes.

1. Looks unprofessional

   Humor is sometimes risky. Some interviewers will appreciate jokes during an interview, and some businesses think that someone who tells jokes is unprofessional. When you tell jokes during a job interview, it might show the hiring committee that you aren't taking the interview seriously.

   Before telling jokes for an interview, read the room. Even good comedians know when to throw their jokes. One way you can tell whether it's okay to make jokes for an interview is to follow the interviewer. See how they are and wait until they make the first funny comment before telling a joke of your own.

2. Affects your reputation

   Job interview jokes about sensitive issues will likely damage your credibility in the business. Hiring managers might not find dark jokes or humor as funny as you. They might even find them tasteless.

   If you want to make jokes for an interview, avoid topics such as race, sex, and religion. You should also avoid overusing jokes about yourself since it may make you look insecure.

3. Risks failure

   The jokes that you find funny might not make sense to another person. When you tell job interview jokes that the other person doesn't understand or laugh at, it can disrupt your connection and ruin your chances of getting hired.

Find a Job that Makes You Smile

Although jokes for an interview have their upsides, you don't need to be a comedian the entire time. Hiring managers aren't always looking for witty responses. If you aren't sure about making job interview jokes, it's always safer to stick to a few tried-and-true methods of leaving a lasting impression: be kind, respectful, and grateful for the opportunity.

After preparing for your interviews, head over to Career.com to explore jobs for you.