April Fool’s Day fell on a Saturday this year. That means there may be a few tricks and pranks happening in the office this week. So, unless you’re completely joyless, get excited for some good ol’ fashioned shenanigans. From changing the desktop picture on your coworker’s computer to stuffing the manager’s office to the brim with balloons, a practical joke goes a long way in lightening the mood in the workplace. But at what point does a joke cross the line into offensive territory? Today, we’re looking at the do’s and don’ts of office pranks. Follow these wet and wild tips from LinkNow Media and you can’t go wrong!

Be Funny

This might sound like a no-brainer, but if you’re going to pull a gag at the office, it’s important that it’s funny. Consider all the possibilities of how this joke could be received by your fellow coworkers. Ask yourself: Is this joke offensive? We’re not recommending that you shouldn’t push the envelope, but be aware that the line between racy and funny is thin. A joke that is too wet and wild may upset your fellow colleague, which can create a hostile working environment.

Be Transparent

Anonymity can quickly turn into a game of whodunit, and the last thing you want is to cause rifts between coworkers. Remaining anonymous isn’t humorous, it’s scandalous – finger pointing is bound to ensue. And besides, what’s the fun in playing a joke without the risk of payback? Man/woman up.

Be Aware

If you are playing a prank at the office, it’s important that you’re present when things get wet and wild. After all, what’s the point in spending time and energy planning a joke, if you aren’t there to witness the reaction? Not to mention, as the instigator, it is your job to intervene should the joke fall flat. It’s also your job to end it when it goes on too long. At the end of the day, you’re still at work.

Final Thoughts

Traditional thinking tells us to go all out when it comes to April Fool’s jokes. When else can you play some wet and wild jokes on your coworkers? Despite good intentions, playing a joke runs the risk of ruffling a few feathers, so be prepared to face the consequences. At LinkNow Media, we suggest only pulling pranks on coworkers whom you have an established relationship with. It’s less dicey! What are your thoughts about farce in the office? Let us know in the comments section below!