Practical jokes can lighten the mood around any office and keep things interesting, especially in workplaces where the routine can be monotonous. Harmless jokes can lift morale, but care should be taken that no one is hurt, physically or psychologically.
Surprise gifts
The best jokes are the ones that no one sees coming. Managers can bring plastic items such as fake dog droppings or bugs and set them in chairs for fake employee reviews. Whoopee cushions or other bodily noise jokes can be funny as well, but make sure they're not audible to customers, who might not appreciate the humor.
Immovable objects
The immovable object is a great and inexpensive practical joke to play in an office. Gluing a penny to the floor or a pen to its holder and asking a co-worker to hand you the item can result in comedy. You may even be able to make rolling chairs or seat adjustments immovable, but be careful not to damage office equipment. Plastic or rubber stoppers should be used instead of glue in these cases.
Redecoration and relocation
Redecoration and relocation are two quick and relatively painless practical jokes. When an employee is away for a time, redecorate his desk with confetti, balloons and all sorts of "Welcome back" gifts. It's funnier if the gifts are so abundant that the employee can hardly find his desk; balloons and police tape are excellent for this purpose. Relocation refers to moving desks, chairs or equipment so that those who aren't in on the joke can't find what they're looking for. Replacing the water cooler with the fax machine (leaving the cups in place) or hanging the break room furniture from the ceiling are all great examples of this. You might consider moving a co-worker's desk or office onto an outside balcony or the parking lot.
