Practical jokes at work can be a fun way to lighten the mood and foster camaraderie among coworkers, as long as they are done in good spirit and without offending anyone. Below are some of the best practical jokes that are harmless, easy to execute, and sure to get a laugh (or at least a smile) around the office.
- Computer Mouse Prank
What You Need: A piece of tape.
How to Execute: Put a small piece of tape over the bottom of a coworker’s computer mouse sensor. When they try to use their mouse, it won’t work, leading to some amusing confusion. Make sure you reveal the joke quickly so they don’t waste too much time troubleshooting!
- Office Supplies Surprise
What You Need: Sticky notes.
How to Execute: Cover a coworker’s workspace—including their computer, chair, and desk—with sticky notes. You can even get creative and write funny notes or doodles on some of them. This is visually hilarious and also harmless.
- Fake Coffee Spill
What You Need: A realistic-looking fake coffee spill (you can purchase these or make one with resin).
How to Execute: Place the fake coffee spill on a coworker’s important documents or laptop. Watch their reaction as they think they’ve caused a coffee disaster, only to realize it’s a prank!
- Reverse Screensaver
What You Need: Access to the coworker’s computer settings.
How to Execute: Change the screensaver on a coworker’s computer to a photo of themselves or a funny, outrageous image. When they walk away from their desk, they’ll be in for a surprise when they return.
- Voice Activation
What You Need: A sticky note or a small sign.
How to Execute: Tape a sign to someone’s computer saying, “Voice Activated: Please Speak Commands.” Watch them talk to their computer, perplexed as it doesn’t respond, while you pretend to be oblivious.
- AutoCorrect Fun
What You Need: Access to a coworker’s phone or computer.
How to Execute: If they have autocorrect settings, change a commonly used word or phrase to something silly. For example, change “Yes” to “Absolutely, unicorns rule!” Make sure you change it back after the joke!
- Office Chair Hijinks
What You Need: A small piece of tape or a chair cushion.
How to Execute: Adjust a person’s office chair so it’s either very high or very low. Alternatively, if they have a cushion, sneakily switch it out for a much thinner one. Just be cautious that they don’t get hurt when they sit down!
- Confetti Explosion
What You Need: Confetti or balloons.
How to Execute: Tape a small bag of confetti or balloons on top of a door, so when they open the door, they get a burst of surprise. This is visually fun and messy, so be prepared for some clean-up!
- Fake Phone Call
What You Need: A friend or coworker in on the joke.
How to Execute: Arrange for a friend to call your target and pretend they’re confirming a ridiculous appointment—like “your scheduled consultation for the Unicorn Farm.” Watch as your coworker looks wildly confused.
- Haunted Printer
What You Need: A small speaker or a Bluetooth device.
How to Execute: Hide a small speaker near the printer and play spooky sounds when someone approaches. When they report issues with the printer, it’ll add a humorous twist to the situation!
Tips for Successful Pranks:
- Know Your Audience: Ensure the person you’re pranking has a good sense of humor and will appreciate the joke.
- Keep It Light: Avoid pranks that could embarrass or hurt someone’s feelings.
- Be Prepared to Apologize: If a prank doesn’t land well, be ready to apologize and make amends.
- Consider Timing and Environment: Choose a good moment when the atmosphere is relaxed, and everyone is receptive to a laugh.
Conclusion
Office pranks can be a great way to bring some joy and laughter to the workday. The key is to keep it lighthearted and make sure everyone has a good sense of humor about it. With the right approach, you can create entertaining memories that strengthen bonds among coworkers. Enjoy your pranking!
