Utilizing Humor to Enhance Leadership Styles in Higher Education Administration

Abstract

This article examined the literature addressing humor as a potential trait that may be adapted to enhance leadership styles in higher educational administration. The paper provides an overview of humor research from several disciplines of the effects on major leadership contemporary leadership theories on leadership styles and relate them to higher educational administration. and addresses the link between humor as additional important trait to leadership competencies.  A theoretical rationale for the importance of humor as functional management communication, especially as it relates to leadership practices is developed. The review provides practical implications and strategic insights, and practical ways of incorporation of humor into leadership styles in higher education administration. Also presented are practical applications of humor on what may help leaders improve their leadership skills by learning to use humor personally and organizationally in management. his literature review concludes that humor is a useful, but delicate tool for leaders and suggestions and offers recommendations in its use.