Funny content, you think? We plead guilty! At We Are COM, we love analogies that seem improbable at first glance. 🎯 And yet, by reading this article you will see that this one is rather relevant. If you are a communicator with flair, nerve and a good sense of punchline, you might seriously consider a career change... 🙃 Let's explore the 7 curious parallels that exist between the universe of communication and that of stand-up.
#1 – Quick, a good story
A stand-upper without a story is like a communicator without storytelling : nothing happens. Captivating your audience from the first few seconds is essential, because without this immediate connection, both risk addressing a void. The hook, the story, the punchline… telling a story is an art, a mastery that requires subtlety and precision.
Their common imaginary mantra? Keep it simple, make it impactful, and know how to find that little detail that will transform the performance into an unforgettable moment!
#2 – Stage fright, stress for good
Cold sweats, dry throat, questioning... Arguing your brilliant idea in front of your doubtful boss is as painful as having to go on stage, to reveal a little more about yourself. 👀 What communicator has never asked themselves “But what am I doing?"?
Yet this stage fright, as distressing as it is, is a real source of motivation, an adrenaline rush that allows you to give the best of yourself.
Their common imaginary mantra? Stage fright is good, it is proof of our investment. We must breathe and learn to tame it.
#3 – Missed timing, lost audience
In stand-up as in communication, everything is a question of timing. The good joke, like the good idea, must know how to choose its moment. Too early, it falls flat… too late, we come across as old-fashioned… The important thing is to constantly adapt to your audience, their expectations and their reactions.
Their common imaginary mantra? It's all about accuracy: the right assessment and the right dose. The right message, at the right time, for the right public, here is our secret!
#4 – Haters or hecklers*, same fight!
The troublemakers, whether they are active on the Social Media or in performance halls, are a scourge. But a scourge that can be fought, by responding with class (and humor, when the situation lends itself to it).
The power of a good communicator or a good comedian is ultimately to know how to take advantage of any situation, however unpleasant it may be.
Their common imaginary mantra? We should never take anything personally. It is by remaining detached and keeping calm that we can respond with agility.
*spectators who interrupt or disrupt a comedian in the middle of a performance, usually in a hostile or mocking manner.
#5 – Recycle? Never!
Unfortunately for us, as with stand-uppers, the audience gets tired quickly! To stay on top, it is strongly advised not to recycle a joke or a campaign. Our role is to constantly surprise, to stand out and ensure public preference.
And what happens if we mess up? We keep calm and bounce back. 😉
Their common imaginary mantra? THEaudience Although it may be changing, one rule remains immutable: it wants something new and fresh, we must innovate.
#6 – The applause meter, a secret addiction
When a comedian lives for laughs, a communicator lives for the results of his campaigns and the engagement they can generate. Well yes, we are dependent on the goodwill of our audiences, and that is what makes our jobs fascinating.
🚫 Be careful, however, not to become addicted to this dose of dopamine, this joy which can only be measured in the very short term.
Their common imaginary mantra? It is by keeping our feet on the ground and learning to understand the reactions of our targets, beyond first impressions, that we act in the long term.
#7 – All passionate
Finally, communicators as well as comedians, take the time to congratulate yourself on your successes, big and small!
Because behind every campaign and behind every stand-up show are hours and hours of work. Beyond the result, whether you're a hit or not, the most important thing is to know why you get up in the morning.
Their common imaginary mantra? Let's learn to juggle between glory and chaos. Let's always stay positive, even between two crises, because we are lucky to be passionate about our jobs.
