I'm always wondering if it's a bad idea to crack a clean joke or bring up mundane topics, like how's the coffee here, to break the ice at the beginning of a high-pressure interview. I tend to use humor when I'm nervous, but I don't want to be seen as unprofessional. Have you found that being a bit lighthearted helps your chances, or does it usually backfire?

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I always err on the side of bringing up mundane topics. I hate trying to crack a joke and then nobody laughs. I do think being a bit lighthearted does help put everyone's nerves at ease.

That will always be awkward if noone laughs

I'm all for it if you can do it without it coming across as forced. I don't have a set rule for if/when I'm going to try to be funny, I just kind of take advantage of the opportunities as they arise.

A small light moment can actually help. Interviews are conversations, not interrogations. I have found that a natural comment about the environment can ease tension, as long as it stays professional and brief.

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