First of all, most jokes are demeaning to one person or another. Second of all, jokes sound contrived, almost like you're trying too hard. And worst of all, if the customer has heard the joke before, it makes you look like a complete idiot, especially at the end when you're the only one laughing. Stories on the other hand are genuine. They tell about experience, they can use self-effacing humor, and they're engaging. Often times when you tell a story, it makes the prospect think of a story and will engage you back (in storytelling that's called a "topper"). If you can get a story of his or
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