The Best April Fools' Day Pranks at Work

Reading time: 5 minutes

Joke 1: A malfunction with the coffee maker ☕️ 

Do you know that coworker who can't function without his morning coffee ? Just picture him. Here’s the perfect prank! In the morning, put a note on the coffee maker that says “out of order,” and watch your coworker’s face when he sees it. And if you’re really clever, pretend you’re the one who fixed the machine later that day. Awesome, right? That way, you’ll also come across as the hero of the day! 

Joke 2: Clapping for the manager 👏🏼 

Who doesn't love a round of loud applause? Well, maybe your manager—if he isn't expecting it… How do you do it? Agree on a specific word with your coworkers. As soon as your boss says that word, you all start clapping enthusiastically clap! I bet your manager won’t have a clue what’s going on. April Fools’ Day! 

Joke 3: “Careful! Just painted!”  

Place a “WET!” warning sign in various spots around the building so your coworkers have to take a detour. Even better: hang the sign on the elevator door or along the quickest route to the restroom, for example. That way, people will have to walk a little farther. But hey, at least your coworkers will hit their daily step goal! 

Here are a few more April Fools' Day pranks:

• Place a cardboard box in the middle of the aisle with the word “fragile” written on it, and see how many people walk around it. 
• Stick a small sticker under a coworker's computer mouse so that the mouse stops working. 
• Replace the sugar in a sugar bowl with salt and see how the person who uses it reacts. 
• Place a speaker under a coworker's desk and play strange sounds every now and then, such as a dog barking or birds chirping. Wait for their surprised reactions.
• Put a note on the cafeteria door that says “free snacks” and see how many coworkers show up to find the snacks.
• Label a package “HEAVY” and watch your coworkers try to lift it!

Don'ts on April 1 

As an employee, it’s best to judge for yourself what your coworkers or boss find funny and what they don’t. When does a joke stop being a joke? In general, you can follow these do’s and don’ts :

• Follow the rules: Every organization has its own rules when it comes to April 1. Make sure you follow these rules as well as the terms of your employment contract.
• It’s better to laugh along than to laugh at someone: April Fools’ Day should be fun for everyone. Playing pranks on your coworkers is fun, but make sure you don’t make them look foolish.
• Don't damage property: This goes without saying, but make sure you don't damage or destroy anyone's property. Nobody likes it when others mess with their stuff.

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