Employee engagement is the backbone of a thriving work environment. Engaged employees work harder and demonstrate better morale at their workplace. But keeping your team motivated and excited about their work can be quite the challenge.
If you and your team are bored of the run-of-the-mill strategies and need a healthy dose of inspiration, we’ve got you covered.
Here are 38 game-changing employee engagement activities to spark collaboration and help you create a work environment your employees will love!
Engagement at work: what does it really mean?
Engagement is all about being emotionally vested in what you’re working on. Engaged employees really care about working for their team and the company’s success. They are proactive and enthusiastic and go the extra mile to contribute, which is everything you could want from an employee.
But engagement isn’t a one-way street. If you want your employees to stay motivated, you must give them purpose, recognition, and an environment that supports their growth.
Working on employee engagement will benefit your organisation and your employees as well. Here’s how:
Benefits for employers
The payoff for actively engaging in employee engagement can be massive for your organisation. According to Gallup, engaged employees are 21% more productive and 41% less likely to take time off.
When your team has engaged employees, it’s more likely to work together as a cohesive unit under pressure. It will also deliver better customer service, directly impacting your organisation’s bottom line.
Benefits for employees
Improved engagement also benefits your team members. According to the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), engaged employees are happier and have better mental health and overall wellbeing. They feel valued, empowered, and connected to something bigger than themselves. Such a connection makes work more fulfilling and inspires your team to grow together as a unit.
If you implement your employee wellness strategies correctly, you can benefit both your organisation and your team members by creating an environment of positivity and success.
Our 38 absolute favourite employee engagement ideas
Here are our absolute favourite employee engagement ideas that are worth trying:
1. Organize engaging Step challenges
Wellness activities are a fantastic way to engage employees. Teamupp makes planning, tracking, and managing participation in wellness events like charity runs, donation drives, or step challenges.
The app works to simplify organising and executing demanding wellness activities by allowing you to set up events, monitor your employees’ participation, and share updates all in one place.
It’s a seamless solution whether you’re planning an event for your remote or in-office teams.
Action plan
Find out how Teamupp can elevate team building and collaboration to the next level. Book a free demo today!
Recommended tool
Teamupp app and a smartphone
Cost
$
2. Host a “thank you” wall
Show appreciation by creating a dedicated space—physical or digital—where your employees can share messages of gratitude. This simple gesture will help boost morale and foster positive communication within your teams.
Action plan
Set up a board in the office or a shared digital platform like Trello. Encourage team members to post notes regularly.
Recommended tool
Trello, Slack, or Microsoft Teams for the digital parts. Pieces of paper and Blu tack for a real “than you” wall.
Cost
Free
3. Launch a skill-share program
Tap into your team’s hidden talents by creating opportunities for them to teach each other new skills. Whether it’s coding basics, painting or creative writing, this initiative will help you build camaraderie between your team members while promoting learning.
Action plan
Poll employees to identify skills they can teach. Set up a weekly or monthly calendar of sessions and provide a designated space and time for the activity.
Recommended tools
Google Calendar for scheduling and Zoom for remote sessions.
Cost
Free
4. Celebrate work anniversaries with a twist
One of the best ways to make work anniversaries memorable is to surprise your employees with personalised celebrations. Rather than generic email shoutouts, tailor the experience to their interests.
Action plan
Create a calendar of anniversaries. Plan small surprises, such as handwritten notes, custom gifts, outdoor activities, or team lunches.
Recommended tools
A gift subscription service like Thnks or Snappy.
Cost
$ to $$$.
5. Plan mystery lunch pairings
Mystery lunch pairings are a great way to encourage cross-team bonding. You can randomly pair your employees to enjoy a meal together. Such an activity will help foster new connections between various teams in your organisation.
Action plan
Use an online pairing tool or draw the names of your team members randomly. Schedule the lunches and provide gift cards or a small stipend to cover meal costs.
Recommended tool
Donut for Slack or manually via Google Sheets.
Cost
$ to $$ (depending on the amount you provide)
6. Introduce “flexible fridays”
This is a new take on the overused “Casual Fridays” initiative. During “Flexible Fridays,” you can give your employees more control over their schedules rather than their outfits. You can also consider letting them wrap up early or allowing them to come late to the office.
Action plan
Announce the initiative and define clear guidelines. Encourage employees to use the time for meaningful activities.
Recommended tools
Time-tracking tools like Toggl to ensure productivity.
Cost
Free
7. Host a quarterly “innovation day”
Letting your employees innovate and think outside the box can also improve engagement. Dedicate a day each quarter for employees to brainstorm, experiment, and pitch creative ideas that could benefit the company. It’s a great way to unleash hidden talent and fresh perspectives.
Action plan
Set up an event day, provide resources like whiteboards or collaboration tools, and offer incentives for the best ideas.
Recommended tools
Miro for virtual brainstorming.
Cost
$$
8. Create a peer-to-peer recognition program
Recognition is one of the biggest stimuli for employee satisfaction. When your employees feel recognised, they tend to feel valued. But recognition shouldn’t only come from superiors. Set up a system where employees can appreciate each other’s contributions. It will build a culture of mutual respect in which your employees will thrive and grow.
Action plan
Use a digital platform for shoutouts and rewards. Include a monthly prize for the most impactful recognition.
Recommended tool
Bonusly or Kazoo.
Cost
$$
9. Start a monthly book club
Bring employees together to discuss inspiring books that resonate with their personal or professional growth. You can either pick the books or let them choose. This initiative improves engagement and adds a touch of fun.
Action plan
Poll employees for book suggestions. Host a monthly meeting, either in person or virtually, to share takeaways.
Recommended tools
Goodreads for tracking book selections.
Cost
$ to $$ (depending on book purchases).
10. Organize wellness challenges
Wellness challenges are among the most effective employee retention and engagement activities you can implement. Prioritise employee wellbeing by introducing fun challenges like step counts, mindfulness practices, or hydration goals. Healthy competition will keep everyone in your team motivated.
Action plan
Announce the challenge, track progress, and don’t forget to celebrate winners with small prizes.
Recommended tools
Teamupp, Strava or Fitbit for tracking activities.
Cost
Free to $
11. Set up a suggestion box (with a twist)
Setting up a suggestion box is a great internal communication idea to boost engagement. Create a modern suggestion box where employees can anonymously share ideas or feedback. Also, make a point of reviewing and implementing suggestions regularly to show employees that their voices matter.
Action plan
Use a physical box or a digital tool like Google Forms. Share updates on implemented ideas to keep the momentum.
Recommended tools
Google Forms or Officevibe.
Cost
Free
12. Plan a surprise appreciation day
Pick a random day to surprise your employees with small tokens of appreciation. It can be anything from a free coffee, handwritten notes, or team lunches. You can create a lasting impact on their wellbeing by providing your employees with such unexpected moments.
Action plan
Secretly plan the day and coordinate small surprises that show genuine gratitude toward your team members.
Recommended tool
Local gift shops or delivery services for personalised gifts.
Cost
$ to $$
13. Introduce learning stipends
Invest in your employees’ growth by offering stipends for courses, certifications, or industry events. They’ll tend to work harder and feel more satisfied when they feel that you care about their growth.
Action plan
Set a budget and outline criteria for stipend use. Share learning opportunities via newsletters or team meetings.
Recommended tools
Coursera or LinkedIn Learning.
Cost
$$$
14. Launch team cooking challenges
Cooking challenges, like the famous TV shows “Chopped” or “Bake-Off,” are great corporate event ideas for improving collaboration and adding a little friendly competition. Plus, everyone gets to enjoy delicious results!
Action plan
Divide employees into teams and provide basic ingredients or themes. Host the event in person or virtually, and vote for the best dish. And don’t forget to recognise the best dishes!
Recommended tools
Zoom (for remote events) or local kitchens for in-person challenges.
Cost
$ to $$$ (depending on supplies)
15. Offer “recharge hours”
Designate a few hours a week where employees can step away from work and focus on personal wellness, creativity, or relaxation. The last thing you want is a team full of overworked and burnt-out employees. Giving them this time will help them recharge their batteries and focus on work.
Action plan
Schedule recharge hours during the least busy time of the week. Provide spaces or virtual activities like yoga sessions.
Recommended tools
Calm, Insight Timer or YouTube videos for guided relaxation sessions.
Cost
Free to $
16. Start a recognition board for customer praise
Nothing is more satisfying than getting a pat on the back from the customers, isn’t it? Share positive feedback from customers on a recognition board. It will remind your employees of the impact they make and boost morale.
Action plan
Collect customer testimonials and create a visible board in the office or online. Update it regularly with fresh feedback.
Recommended tool
Canva for digital boards or Slack for sharing updates.
Cost
Free
17. Introduce “bring your hobby to work” days
Let employees showcase their hobbies, such as painting, knitting, or playing music. This is a fun way to discover shared interests and spark conversations between different teams. It will also help you break silos and increase collaboration.
Action plan
Plan a day where employees can display their hobbies in a shared space or virtual meeting. Encourage active participation and curiosity.
Recommended tools
Zoom (for remote showcases) or office bulletin boards.
Cost
Free
18. Host quarterly town halls
Town halls are an excellent way to keep everyone aligned and engaged with the company’s vision. Use these meetings to celebrate achievements, discuss challenges, and involve your team members in decision-making.
Action plan
Schedule quarterly town halls with interactive Q&A sessions. Use visuals and clear communication to keep everyone engaged.
Recommended tools
Microsoft Teams or Zoom for virtual town halls.
Cost
Free to $ (for logistics)
19. Create a fun office Spotify playlist
Music is a great mood booster and a conversation starter. Use the collaborative playlist option to get employees involved in curating an office playlist filled with their favourite tracks.
Action plan
Start a shared playlist on Spotify and invite employees to add their favourite songs. Play it during work hours or team events.
Recommended tools
Spotify
Cost
Free to $ (for premium subscriptions)
20. Organize monthly lunch and learns
Host monthly “Lunch & Learn” sessions to combine food with knowledge-sharing. This is one of the best and easiest-to-implement ideas for employee engagement. Participants can present on topics they’re passionate about or invite guest speakers to inspire the team.
Action plan
Schedule sessions during lunch hours. Provide a budget for meals and choose topics that resonate with your employees.
Recommended tool
Zoom or Google Meet for hybrid sessions
Cost
$ to $$
21. Create a rotating “CEO for the day” role
Give employees a day to step into a leadership role. You can have them shadow the CEO, participate in decision-making, and gain new perspectives on the company’s operations. Staff engagement ideas like these help break boundaries and build a positive work culture.
Action plan
Develop a selection process and create a structured schedule for the “CEO of the Day.” Ensure follow-ups to discuss learnings.
Recommended tools
None required
Cost
Free
22. Set up a workspace makeover contest
Encourage employees to personalise their workspaces with a fun makeover contest. This will foster creativity and make the office feel more welcoming. Workplace engagement ideas like this are great for rejuvenating the work environment and keeping things fresh for your employees.
Action plan
Announce the contest and set themes or criteria. Award prizes for categories like “Most Creative” or “Best Use of Space.”
Recommended tools
Canva for polls and voting
Cost
$ to $$
23. Run a “passion projects week”
Dedicate a week where your employees can work on projects outside of their usual tasks. These projects can focus on innovation, professional growth, or personal interests. Such internal engagement ideas will help your employees gain insights into the company’s workings, making them feel more connected.
Action plan
Set aside specific hours or days. Provide resources and showcase completed projects during a team event.
Recommended tools
Asana for tracking projects
Cost
Free to $
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24. Host outdoor team-building days
A change of scenery can do wonders for team morale and wellbeing. Take your team outdoors for activities like hiking, picnics, or sports tournaments. It is one of the best ideas for team engagement, even if it might cost a bit more.
Action plan
Select an outdoor venue, plan activities, and ensure accessibility for all employees.
Recommended tool
Organize a outdoor step-challenge with Teamupp, or use event planning tools like Eventbrite
Cost
$$ to $$$
25. Implement micro-learning sessions
Offer bite-sized learning opportunities that are easy to digest and fit into your employees’ busy schedules. These could include short video tutorials or five-minute training sessions. Such employee engagement activities will motivate them to learn and not feel stagnant in their careers.
Action plan
Curate a library of microlearning materials and schedule regular sessions.
Recommended tools
Learning platforms like Udemy or Skillshare
Cost
$$
26. Start a workplace wellness committee
Create a committee to spearhead wellness initiatives tailored to your team’s needs. It is one of the best sustainability ideas that ensures long-term commitment to employee health and happiness.
Action plan
Recruit volunteers from different departments to join the committee. Brainstorm initiatives like fitness challenges, mental health workshops, or ergonomic improvements.
Recommended tools
Slack for collaboration
Cost
Free to $$
27. Run a photo or art contest
A great employee engagement suggestion is encouraging creativity with a workplace photo or art contest. You can have your employees submit their best work, and the winners can display their pieces in the office or on social media.
Action plan
Announce the contest, set submission guidelines, and involve the team in voting.
Recommended tools
Instagram or Google Drive for submissions
Cost
Free to $ (for prizes)
28. Reward employees with experiences, not just things
Your employees are more likely to feel motivated when rewarded with something they can experience and cherish. Instead of generic employee rewards like plaques or cash, offer experiences like cooking classes, concert tickets, or spa days. These employee engagement ideas leave a lasting impression and show your genuine appreciation for their happiness.
Action plan
Collect feedback on preferred experiences. Partner with local businesses or use online services to arrange them.
Recommended tool
Experience gifting platforms like RedBalloon or Virgin Experience Days
Cost
$$ to $$$
29. Create a workplace trivia league
Organize trivia games featuring categories like pop culture, company history, or industry knowledge. Teams can compete for bragging rights or fun prizes.
Action plan
Host trivia sessions during lunch breaks or team meetings. Use a quiz platform to manage the event.
Recommended tools
Kahoot or Quizizz
Cost
Free to $
30. Offer a sabbatical program
Reward long-serving employees with the opportunity to take extended paid time off to recharge, travel, or pursue personal goals. It is one of the best talent engagement ideas to help you retain the best employees within your team.
Action plan
Set clear eligibility criteria (e.g., after five years of service). Offer flexible options for sabbaticals.
Recommended tools
None required
Cost
$$$ (depending on duration)
31. Start a quarterly “ask me anything” with leadership
AMA sessions are excellent for fostering transparency and connection between your employees and management. You can have the employees ask senior leaders anything—from business strategy to personal hobbies.
Action plan
Collect questions anonymously in advance or take live questions during the session. Schedule these quarterly.
Recommended tools
Slido for anonymous questions
Cost
Free
32. Celebrate cultural diversity with global food days
Highlight the diverse cultures within your team by hosting events where employees can share food, traditions, or stories from their heritage.
Action plan
Pick a date, invite employees to bring dishes from their culture, and create an inclusive environment for sharing.
Recommended tool
Canva for creating invitations
Cost
$ to $$
33. Host a DIY hackathon
The best way to bring your employees together is by letting them find a solution to a problem. Encourage employees to solve work-related challenges creatively with a “DIY Hackathon.” Employees collaborate, brainstorm, and pitch solutions within a day or two.
Action plan
Set a challenge, form teams, and provide necessary resources. End the event with presentations and rewards.
Recommended tools
Miro for brainstorming
Cost
$$ to $$$
34. Establish a mentorship program
Pair senior employees with junior team members to foster professional growth, knowledge sharing, and stronger relationships within the company.
Action plan
Match mentors and mentees based on interests and goals. Schedule regular check-ins to track progress.
Recommended tools
Together Mentorship Platform
Cost
Free to $$
35. Offer “surprise skill-building days”
Dedicate a day for employees to attend surprise workshops or classes in areas like coding, photography, or creative writing. It’s a fun way to build new skills and break monotony.
Action plan
Poll employees for interests and collaborate with local trainers or online platforms to deliver the workshops.
Recommended tools
MasterClass or local trainers
Cost
$$$
36. Create a pet-friendly office policy
Allow employees to bring their pets to work occasionally. It reduces stress and brings joy to the office environment.
Action plan
Set clear guidelines for pet days, such as pet behaviour and cleanliness standards.
Recommended tool
None required
Cost
Free
37. Set up a coffee-tasting corner
Transform your office coffee station into a tasting corner with premium blends, brewing methods, and even coffee art workshops.
Action plan
Partner with local coffee roasters for supplies or workshops. Rotate new coffee options every month.
Recommended tools
None required
Cost
$ to $$
38. Run a quarterly “Failure Celebration” event
Create a safe space to normalise failure by celebrating lessons learned from setbacks. Employees share stories and insights from challenges they’ve faced.
Action plan
Host quarterly gatherings where employees share lessons learned. Highlight how these failures contributed to growth.
Recommended tools
Miro or Google Slides for presentations
Cost
Free
3 hacks to improve overall employee engagement
Even with the best ideas, employee engagement takes time and effort. It’s not easy keeping employees motivated and invested in their work — it’s all about intentionality, creativity, and using the right tools.
If you’re struggling to get results even after putting in effort, these three actionable hacks can help you turn that around.
Provide opportunities for professional development
If employees feel they’re growing professionally, they’re more likely to stay engaged. Growth is a natural and important driver of job satisfaction and accelerates engagement in many significant ways.
When you offer structured development opportunities to your employees, they will thrive in the work environment and improve their productivity.
Actionable steps you can take include the following:
- Invest in training programs tailored to individual roles
- Encourage employees to attend industry conferences or webinars
- Pair junior staff with experienced mentors for long-term growth
Create a social and inclusive culture
Employee engagement ideas that put inclusivity front and centre are critical for long-term engagement. You can create stronger employee bonds when your workplace values teamwork and celebrates diverse perspectives.
Apps like Teamupp make team-building seamless, especially for hybrid or remote teams. You can organize fun challenges, charity events, or even virtual coffee chats to bring employees together. What’s more, tracking participation and sharing updates is a breeze with Teamupp.
Here’s how you can use Teamupp:
- Use the app to track daily steps, host fitness contests, or share workout goals
- Encourage employees to participate in fundraising events or volunteer activities
Focus on employee wellness
If your employees are happy, they tend to perform better at their jobs. Wellness programs show employees that you care about their physical and mental health, which can significantly enhance engagement.
Here are a few key employee wellness activities you should engage in:
- Offer your employees mental health resources, like counselling or stress management workshops.
- Create relaxation zones in your office with comfortable seating where employees can relax.
- Promote work-life balance by introducing flexible work hours or remote options.
Employee engagement requires conscious and continued effort. These ideas and hacks—supported by key employee engagement statistics—will help your employees become more invested in your company’s success.
Are you interested in contributing to employees’ daily wellness?
