"Our research suggests that all things being held equal, humor at work is interpreted differently for men and women,"said the study authors. "It is likely that women will be harmed by following the advice to be funny during work presentations and similar formal business settings, standing in contrast to the specific advice from authors who recommend using humor in business presentations."

The authors added the caveat that this experiment only looks at first impressions, and that extended interactions could possibly overcome this bias. They also said that by no means should women refrain from humor at all, but to just be aware of this effect as they do so.