subject: How to Handle Jokes [print this page] How to Handle Jokes How to Handle Jokes
There is no one universal way to handle a situation when someone jokes about you. However, there are some ways which as a communication coach, I've noticed to work best in many situations. Here they are:
1. Ignore. Often, people will make a joke about you because they want to make you feel bad or they seek attention. In such cases, they worst thing you can do is notice the joke and blow it out of proportion by reacting to it. Instead, treat it like a normal comment. Don't let it hurt you, don't defend yourself, just keep the conversation going.
2. Joke back with style. Sometimes, you can put a person joking about you in their place by making a joke about them as a response. However, there is a trick here: your joke needs to be smart and delivered with style, a reflection of an advantage over the other person. That way, they'll know not to mess with you because they'll make a fool of themselves.
3. Embrace it. A confident person does not get defensive when someone jokes about them. Instead, they often have no problem taking in that joke and amplifying it. For example, if someone might tell them "You don't get out much, do you?" they may answer with something like "No, this is my first time this year". This way, they demonstrate they are comfortable in their skin and don't need approval from others.
4. Look behind the joke. Sometimes, a joke can subtly reflect that the other person is hurt by something or they may have a quarrel with you. If you think such a thing might be possible, it is best to disarm the person by asking them about the problem they have. Don't focus on the joke; try to discover what the wound behind it is.
When you are able to handle jokes well, not only that you don't get offended too much by them, but you are also able to project good people skills through they way you respond to them.
