Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Host • Riffing • MC

Observational

Term from Standup Comedy industry explained for recruiters

Observational refers to a popular style of comedy where performers find humor in everyday life situations and common experiences. It's like pointing out funny things that everyone experiences but might not think about. When you see this term in a resume, it means the comedian specializes in making audiences laugh by sharing relatable stories about daily life, similar to how Jerry Seinfeld talks about airline food or how Jim Gaffigan discusses parenting. This style is different from other types of comedy like slapstick, political satire, or character-based comedy.

Examples in Resumes

Developed 30-minute Observational comedy set about modern dating and technology

Featured performer specializing in Observational Comedy at major comedy clubs

Created viral social media content using Observational humor about workplace culture

Typical job title: "Observational Comedians"

Also try searching for:

Stand-up Comedian Comedy Writer Content Creator Humor Writer Comedy Performer

Where to Find Observational Comedians

Comedy Communities

Industry Resources

Example Interview Questions

Experienced Comedian Questions

Q: How do you develop and test new material while maintaining your established style?

Expected Answer: Should explain their process of observing daily life, writing notes, testing material at smaller venues, and refining based on audience reaction. Should mention how they keep track of what works and what doesn't.

Q: How do you adapt your observational material for different audiences?

Expected Answer: Should discuss how they adjust their content and delivery based on audience demographics, venue type, and cultural context while keeping the core observational style intact.

Mid-Level Comedian Questions

Q: What's your process for turning everyday observations into comedy material?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain how they identify potentially funny situations, develop them into bits, and structure them for maximum impact.

Q: How do you ensure your observational material stays fresh and relevant?

Expected Answer: Should discuss methods for staying current with trends, avoiding common topics, and finding new angles on familiar situations.

Beginning Comedian Questions

Q: What inspires your observational comedy material?

Expected Answer: Should be able to discuss their sources of inspiration from daily life and explain how they identify potentially humorous situations.

Q: How do you practice and develop your observational skills?

Expected Answer: Should describe their method for noting down observations, practicing material, and getting feedback from audiences or other comedians.