Functional Workplace Play: The Types of Play Employees Engage in at Work

Abstract

Workplace play has been positively associated with job satisfaction, engagement, and learning (Petelczyc et al., 2018; Savage et al., 2017) as well as reduced employee burnout and stress (DesCamp & Thomas, 1990). Despite the benefits, there is little consensus about what types of play employees engage in (Petelczyc, et al., 2018) within the actual workplace and their functions. The current study utilizes a qualitative, inductive approach to examine play by asking employees to share real-life stories about workplace play. Five types of play emerged from the data, which include Celebration that recognizes accomplishments; Construction that enhances productivity; Cheerful Disposition that fosters a positive work environment; Connection that builds relationships; and Conflict Navigation that addresses difficult situations. The five types can be grouped into three complementary functions to drive productivity, foster relationships, and manage conflict.