Goof off

Before adopting gamified training, organizations should stress the importance of manager participation. Leaders who visibly play while in the office are more likely to boost employee participation and business results. “Prior research on digital gamified training platforms tells us that they can be seen as a distraction,” says Tatiana Sandino, a professor at Harvard Business School and a coauthor of the study. “But if the leader jumps in and signs on to the platform, it gives employees license to sign on as well.” It also encourages employees to see the training as more important than they otherwise might.

Employees should feel comfortable using the training at their desks during office hours, free from concerns that others might think they are goofing off. “The fact that it’s fun may make it seem less permissible,” Buell says. “Do I really get to play at work? The leader is modeling that not only is it OK to play; playing is a good thing.” In other words, playing should be viewed as a legitimate part of work, not as a break from it.