10 Workplace Traditions to Boost Staff Morale

In a world where work can sometimes feel like a grind, a splash of humour can transform the mundane into something delightful. Today, we're exploring some fun workplace rules that not only add a touch of amusement to daily routines but can boost team morale and foster camaraderie in the office.

Playful Workplace Policies to Boost Performance

Workplace rules don't have to be all about restrictions and boundaries. Some companies have embraced the power of playful policies to invigorate their teams and enhance productivity. Here are some ideas to inspire you if you want to inject some fun into the workplace. 

1. Daily Dance-Off

In a bustling New York City newsroom, the "Daily Dance-Off" has become a cherished tradition. Every morning, employees gather in the break room for a brief dance session to kickstart their day. This lively rule not only injects energy into the office but also breaks down barriers among team members. The dance-off encourages employees to step out of their comfort zones and fosters an environment where vulnerability is met with support and encouragement.

2. Weekly Lotto Draw

What’s not to like about free money? Adult Social Care Group IVOLVE have a weekly draw for staff and give away £250 to a lucky lotto winner. Coincidentally or not, IVOLVE has been recognised as one of the best places to work 2024 by the Sunday Times in the very big organisation category.

3. Wellness Wednesdays at Octopus

In a bid to destress colleagues at Octopus Energy they started off Wellness Wednesdays as a casual team get-together. They enjoyed it so much that it turned into a weekly slot in the calendar, where people could vent or just chat about how they're feeling, ending with a feel-good movie. Sometimes, a good vent is needed to leave problems behind. Octopus staff also have access to therapy from licensed professionals through Headspace and is another company that features on the Sunday Times best places to work list this year.

4. Summer Hours

Early Friday finishes are becoming more popular, and we’re here for it. The team at Ambitious PR get to up and leave work at 3pm on Fridays over the summer. Every June, July and August everyone just stops work that bit early.

5. Pawternity Leave

Who knew this was a thing? Pets at Home give staff an extra day off when they get a new pet. Better still Pets at Home give you an extra week of paid leave if you’re getting married. Beer company Brewdog gives you a whole week of leave when you get a dog!

6. Tune of the day

A product design team at Microsoft has a tradition where the team takes turns to choose a song that gets blasted through the office at 3 pm every day. Employees can dance and sing along or, perhaps slate the person for their song choice. Either way a good conversation starter.

7. Lunchtime Surfing

Patagonia boss Yvon Chouinard is a keen surfer and encourages staff to head out for a surf at lunch when the conditions are right. He’s a strong believer in getting the work done at a time that suits you and not missing peak surfing conditions. Or if you’re not into surfing and you’re more of a family person, head over to the onsite creche to see what your kids are doing at lunch.

8. Pyjama Friday

Dress codes are a common aspect of workplace rules, often aiming to maintain professionalism and uniformity. However, some organisations have adopted unconventional dress codes to challenge norms and spark joy. These rules shed light on the evolving nature of work attire and how it can influence company culture.

A tech company in Silicon Valley that mandates "Pyjama Fridays." Employees are encouraged to come to work dressed in their cosiest pyjamas—a light-hearted twist on the traditional casual Friday. This rule not only allows employees to express themselves but also creates an atmosphere of relaxation and creativity. It's amazing how a simple change in attire can lead to more open communication and collaboration among team members.

9. Forget Taco Tuesday and introduce Trilby Tuesday

A startup in London has introduced "Hat Day" every Tuesday. Employees are encouraged to don their favourite hats, whether it's a classic fedora or a wacky sombrero. This playful rule has become a weekly tradition that not only adds a dash of fun to the office but also encourages conversations and connections among colleagues who might not interact otherwise.

10. Sausage Sizzle Friday

Food has a unique way of bringing people together, and some workplaces have harnessed this to create memorable experiences for their teams. From themed lunch days to edible incentives, these rules highlight the role of food in fostering camaraderie and strengthening workplace relationships.

In Australia, a tech company has introduced a "Sausage Sizzle Friday" tradition. Every Friday afternoon, employees gather in the courtyard for a barbecue feast. This simple and fun rule not only provides a break from work but also encourages employees to connect on a personal level.

The Benefits of Quirky Office Rules

While these funny workplace rules might seem light-hearted and unconventional, they offer a range of benefits that extend beyond just laughter and amusement. These rules can contribute to a more cohesive and motivated team, enhanced creativity, and a positive work culture.

Humour and playfulness in the workplace can reduce stress and increase job satisfaction. Employees who feel valued and appreciated are more likely to be engaged and motivated. Quirky rules provide an opportunity for employees to express themselves authentically and connect with colleagues on a personal level.

Furthermore, these rules encourage employees to think outside the box and approach challenges with a fresh perspective. By fostering an environment where creativity is encouraged and celebrated, companies can drive innovation and problem-solving.

How to Implement Quirky Office Rules

For workplace culture enthusiasts and business leaders looking to introduce a touch of humour into their organisations, implementing quirky rules can be a rewarding endeavour. However, it's essential to strike a balance between light-heartedness and professionalism.

Start by identifying areas where humour can naturally fit into your company's culture. Consider the interests and preferences of your team to ensure that the rules resonate with everyone. Whether it's a weekly themed day or a fun office ritual, involve employees in the decision-making process to encourage buy-in and participation.

Communicate the purpose and benefits of these rules to your team, emphasizing the positive impact they can have on morale and productivity. Encourage feedback and be open to adjusting the rules based on employee experiences and insights.

Conclusion

The world of work doesn't have to be all about deadlines and targets. These quirky and amusing workplace rules from around the globe remind us that a bit of laughter and playfulness can go a long way in creating a positive and harmonious work environment.