Show and Tell at Work Day

Show and Tell at Work Day is observed on January 8. This occasion invites adults to bring the childhood classroom tradition into the professional environment to foster better communication and interpersonal connections among colleagues.

History of Show and Tell at Work Day

This unique observance was created by Thomas and Ruth Roy of Wellcat Holidays. The founders noticed that the workplace often becomes overly formal and impersonal, causing employees to lose touch with the individual personalities of their coworkers. By reintroducing the concept of “show and tell,” they intended to break the monotony of the standard work week and provide a lighthearted way for professionals to express their interests and histories outside of their job descriptions.

While the practice of sharing objects is most commonly associated with early elementary education, the creators recognized that the underlying benefits are just as relevant for adults. Since its inception, the day has evolved from a niche calendar event into a popular team-building tool. It serves as a reminder that the skills learned in kindergarten, such as active listening and public speaking, remain foundational to a healthy and productive work culture.

Why is Show and Tell at Work Day important?

This day is significant because it helps humanize the professional landscape. In a typical office or remote setting, interactions are often limited to task-oriented discussions, which can lead to a sense of isolation. When employees share a personal artifact, they provide a window into their lives, allowing colleagues to find common ground beyond their professional duties. This increased personal knowledge builds trust and empathy, which are essential for effective collaboration and conflict resolution.

Furthermore, the event acts as a low-pressure exercise in communication and presentation skills. Standing up to talk about a cherished object requires a different kind of confidence than delivering a quarterly report. It encourages storytelling and helps individuals practice articulating their thoughts clearly in front of a group. For many teams, this simple interaction acts as a catalyst for deeper relationships and a more inclusive environment where everyone feels seen and heard.

• It breaks down social barriers between different departments and hierarchy levels.
• Employees practice public speaking in a supportive and informal setting.
• Sharing personal stories increases mutual respect and reduces workplace friction.
• The activity provides a mental break that can boost overall office morale.
• Team members discover shared hobbies and interests that lead to new friendships.

How to Celebrate Show and Tell at Work Day

To participate, choose an item that represents a significant part of your life or a specific passion. This could be a souvenir from a meaningful trip, a handcrafted project, a vintage collectible, or even a photo of a pet. Prepare a brief explanation of why the item is important to you and be ready to answer questions from your coworkers. If you work in a physical office, you can set up a small display area or dedicate a portion of a morning meeting to the presentations.

For remote teams, the celebration can be adapted by using video conferencing or internal messaging platforms. Participants can hold their items up to the camera or share a digital presentation featuring photos of their objects. To make the day even more engaging, the office can vote on categories such as the most unique item or the most surprising story. The key is to keep the atmosphere relaxed and appreciative, ensuring that every participant feels comfortable sharing their piece of “show and tell.”

• Bring a physical item from home that sparks a conversation about your hobbies.
• Share a short digital slideshow of photos that tell a story about your background.
• Use a five-minute block at the start of a meeting for team presentations.
• Ask curious and respectful questions to learn more about your colleagues’ items.
• Provide small snacks or refreshments to create a festive and communal atmosphere.

Show and Tell at Work Day Dates Table