Hi Dave – You’ve talked about working in the corporate market as a comedian or humorous speaker. What is considered corporate comedy material and what is not? – B.E.
Living on the edge?
Hey B.E. – That’s a great question, and honestly, one I don’t hear in such a general way. Usually it’s more specific, like “Is this particular joke okay for a corporate show?” But since you asked broadly, I’ll give you the broad answer first.
When it comes to corporate work, the golden rule is simple: work clean. I’ve said it many times before, and I’ll keep saying it because it’s true.
There’s been some debate on social media about whether dropping F-bombs will ever become acceptable at corporate functions. My opinion? The people saying that are a little F-bombed themselves. It’s not happening now, and it won’t anytime soon. Sure, there may be rare exceptions with an “edgy” company (think Comedy Central), but if you want steady work in the corporate market, clean material is the standard. That means no F-bombs, and no routines where the F-bomb is the punchline.
Now, let’s get into what corporate audiences do look for. A lot depends on the event and its theme.
Follow the rules.
From my experience as both a booking agent and a corporate speaker:
- Comedians are often hired for holiday parties, retirement banquets, and award ceremonies. The material can cover almost anything—marriage, kids, sports, current events—as long as it’s clean and fits the mood. But it’s important to know the theme. If it’s a holiday party, the client might want some holiday references mixed in. At a retirement banquet, comics who can roast, ad-lib, and personalize a few jokes usually do well. The key is to keep the laughs lighthearted—no embarrassment, no hurt feelings.
- Humorous speakers are different. They’re brought in for their message—stress relief, communication, networking, leadership, tech training, you name it. With humor, they become entertaining as well as informative. These speakers might give keynotes, run breakout sessions, or even full-day training workshops. Their material comes directly from their area of expertise, with comedy woven in to keep the audience engaged.
So, to put it simply:
- Comedians = entertainment. Be funny, be clean, and tie in the event’s theme when needed.
- Humorous speakers = infotainment. Deliver useful content, but with humor so it sticks.
That’s the general answer to your general question, B.E. If you’re serious about working the corporate market, start by keeping your act clean, know the event’s theme, and always make sure the CEO (or whoever signs the check) leaves happy.
Thanks for reading and as always – keep laughing!
For details about September – October 2025 online comedy workshops check out this LINK
Click on the banner below to sign up for Dave’s free newsletter.
For comments, questions about workshops and coaching please email – Dave@TheComedyBook.com
