How to use humour at work with Giovanni Vernia

BEFORE YOU PRESS PLAY

What is discussed

AskMonty AI editorial noteSource consulted: 2026-09-29

Montemagno and Giovanni Vernia discuss making work more humane through humour, distinguishing professionalism from rigidity. After an extended comic opening about Genoa, Milan and Vernia’s consulting career, they focus on empathy, humility and self-deprecation: helping people feel comfortable matters more than performing jokes. Vernia contrasts this with gossip, misplaced vulgarity and mocking colleagues, which can increase tension. He suggests observing one’s behaviour, learning from others’ strengths and using unexpected interruptions without humiliating those trying to fix them. A cabin announcement illustrates how a repetitive task can become memorable. In the closing section, an anecdote from Vernia’s courses and a recollection of Fiorello bring the discussion back to preparation: improvisation is not the same as making things up carelessly. Psychological benefits and quotations are the speakers’ arguments, not verified clinical guidance; Vernia also presents his corporate training.

Key points

• Professionalism and humour can coexist: the aim is attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Empathy and self-deprecation can reduce distance without targeting other people’s perceived flaws.
• Gossip, vulgarity and ridicule can create tension rather than bring a group together.
• Observing oneself and learning from colleagues’ strengths are suggested ways to improve communication.
• A technical problem can become an opportunity to connect with the audience without blaming the technician.
• Preparation and rehearsal make it possible to improvise while retaining direction.