People sometimes ask me why our organization has a costume closet, light-up hula hoops, and a unicorn ring toss game. My response is, “Why doesn’t yours?”
It may seem frivolous to some but numerous studies have determined that intentional time for fun at work makes employees more likely to perform better, sparks increased teamwork, and creates a better learning environment.
In the last few months alone, we hosted a breakfast-themed potluck, a family movie night, and a pumpkin carving party. We celebrated the holiday season with an afternoon of assembling care packages, learning the art of charcuterie and flower arrangement, and playing hilarious Minute to Win It games to see who would take home the Tacosaurus Rex.
None of these activities are particularly necessary to the work we do. But they contribute significantly to the spirit of how we approach the work.
Year after year, we see that a fun workplace is one that creates a safe environment for learning. In our case, the learning is as much about dynamics between teams as it is the individuals who make up the teams.
You see, when people experience something together, the natural result is group cohesion.
For me, it’s all about the specificity: Meeting Sydney’s husband Anthony, taking Vanessa’s and Sunni’s newborns for a stroll around the office, helping Stacey melt crayons to decorate her pumpkin, and chasing Emily’s son in my unicorn costume.
We celebrate the effort and orchestrate experiences that allow our team to have better, more genuine connections, which makes them more inclined to help each other. Teamwork really does make the dream work, especially when it happens in fun, informal ways from time to time.
Any of these activities could be considered a distraction, but our experience has been an increase in appreciation for the organization and a sense of optimism even during the hardest, busiest times.
Our annual cultural health survey scores support these observations. This year’s results showed pride in the workplace and a sense of support were among the top areas where we shine.
Based on the laughter and smiles we see not only during these designated fun times but also over lunch and in passing conversations, that feedback should come as no surprise.
We’re always looking for ways to improve but also think we’ve found the secret sauce that works for our team. And it’s fun.
Fun creates camaraderie, which strengthens overall company culture. Sometimes it’s as simple as time set aside to paint a pumpkin, eat a slice of cake, or watch a movie. And if costumes speak to you too, then feel free to stop by and borrow a few things. Just not the inflatable pink unicorn—that’s our favorite.
