Why “Mandatory Fun” Isn’t Fun at All (and What Works Better at Work)

Jan 2, 2026

Research cited in the book Laugh Out Loud by Inkson and Plester (whom I had the pleasure of meeting meeting at an International Group of Humor Studies conference in Utrecht a few years ago) suggests that overly managed fun events are the least preferred forms of fun in the workplace (equally unappreciated events included “mime karaoke,” broccoli eating contests, and pin-the-tail-on-the-CFO).

Their research showed a split between extroverts and introverts when it comes to the enjoyment of some team building events, especially events held outside of work hours.

They also found that employees are also less likely to enjoy events that look like they are being used to promote company propaganda, that come attached with directives (“You WILL have fun, or ELSE!”), or are overly-geared towards management.

So, here are a few suggestions that might help:

1. Ask front line employees what they want to do! Get regular feedback and input, both before and after events.
2. Involve front line employees in the planning of events, or, better still, have front line teams take the lead and plan the entire event, at least from time to time.
3. Extroverts are far more likely to speak up and offer to coordinate fun activities, so be intentional about involving the introverts as well. Get the introverts on board to make sure there is a balance of activities or options to suit different personalities at any event.
4. Mix up your approach over time so that some events are geared more towards the introverts, others towards the extroverts.
5. Be wary of inadvertently sending a message that might be construed as making fun mandatory. Create an environment where everyone feels included and invited to have fun, but without forcing the fun on anyone.

Michael Kerr, 2026. Michael Kerr is a Hall of fame speaker on workplace culture, humor in the workplace and inspiring leadership.  He is the author of 9 books, including, “Small Moments, Big Outcomes, How Leaders Create Cultures That Fuel Extraordinary Results,”  “The Jerk-Free Workplace: How You Can Take the Lead to Create a Happier, more Inspiring Workplace” and “The Humor Advantage: Why Some Businesses are Laughing All the Way to the Bank.”