In 2025, March Madness bracket games drew tens of millions of entries, including more than 24 million submitted through ESPN’s Tournament Challenge alone.

It’s no surprise the tournament also captures attention during the workday. Robert Half estimates that the average worker spends roughly six hours on March Madness-related activities over the course of the event, with many employees participating in brackets or other workplace-themed fun.

March Madness is simply part of today’s workplace culture.

Rather than viewing the tournament as a productivity challenge, employers can treat it as an opportunity. With the right approach, the excitement surrounding March Madness can support morale, connection, and team engagement.

Here are five ideas to consider.

1) Create a Bracket Challenge (No Buy-In Required)
Filling out brackets is part of the fun, but money-based pools can create policy, legal, or interpersonal complications. A no-cost challenge with a modest prize keeps participation high while avoiding unnecessary issues. Simple rewards can drive just as much engagement. Consider options like gift cards, a team lunch, an extra PTO day, company swag, a fun trophy, or even lighthearted bragging rights. The goal is friendly competition, not high stakes.

2) Set Up a Viewing Space
If your employees are working on site, consider creating a shared space where games can be viewed during lunch or breaks, while keeping expectations around productivity clear. Employees will follow the tournament either way, often from their desks or phones. A designated viewing area simply gives that excitement a place to go. Even better, it can spark conversation, build camaraderie, and turn March Madness into a shared team experience rather than a quiet distraction.

3) Celebrate with Food
Good food has a way of bringing people together. A themed lunch or snacks can create an easy, inclusive way for everyone to join the fun, even those who are not following the tournament. For remote teams, consider sending a small meal stipend or gift card so employees can order lunch or treats. You can even tie it into a virtual March Madness check-in or casual team gathering.

4) Allow Employees to Wear Team Colors
March Madness is a perfect excuse to relax the dress code a bit. Encouraging employees to wear team colors or jerseys, whether in the office or on virtual calls, adds energy and gives people an easy way to show some personality. It is also a natural conversation starter. Just keep expectations simple, clear, and workplace appropriate.

5) Decorate Workspaces
A little friendly decorating can add to the fun. Employees working on site can personalize their workspace with team colors or subtle March Madness touches, while remote team members can join in with themed virtual backgrounds. For an extra boost of engagement, consider a lighthearted contest or small prize for creativity. It is a simple way to encourage participation and let employees show some personality.

Embrace the Madness
Embracing March Madness can be more than just allowing a little workplace fun. With a thoughtful approach, it can strengthen connection, energize teams, and provide a meaningful morale boost. And what leader doesn’t want more of that?

_____

Close HR partners with leaders to provide practical HR expertise across the full spectrum of people and workplace needs.