Can Fantasy Football Increase Productivity? Here’s the Data

By Dirk Menkveld on Tuesday, August 19, 2025

Can Fantasy Football Increase Productivity? Here’s the Data

Fantasy football, known as a prediction game in some regions, involves forecasting the outcomes of matches rather than choosing players for a team. This engaging activity is gaining traction not just among sports enthusiasts, but also in workplaces aiming to boost team productivity and engagement. But does this popular pastime really enhance workplace efficiency?

The Intersection of Fun and Work

Many organisations are now realising the potential of fantasy football as a tool for employee engagement and productivity. Introducing gamification elements into the work environment can transform everyday tasks into enjoyable experiences, thereby increasing motivation and performance.

Benefits of Fantasy Football at Work

Boosts Team Morale: Fantasy football creates a platform for colleagues to bond over shared interests. This can lead to improved communication and cooperation.
Encourages Healthy Competition: Employees thrive on competition. A friendly fantasy football league can push individuals to perform better, both in the game and at work.
Promotes Strategic Thinking: Predicting game outcomes requires analytical thinking and strategic planning, skills that are transferable to workplace tasks.
Enhances Engagement: Employees who participate in office games tend to feel more engaged and invested in their workplace.

Real Data, Real Results

A study conducted by Employee Engagement & Gamification organisations has shown a 20% increase in work satisfaction among teams participating in prediction games like fantasy football. The camaraderie and excitement surrounding these games often spill over into daily work activities, making teams more cohesive and productive.

Implementing Fantasy Football in Your Workplace

To get started, organise a fantasy football league. Here are some tips:

Keep It Simple: Use platforms that offer easy setup and management. This allows more employees to participate without feeling overwhelmed.
Set Clear Goals: Define what success looks like, not just in terms of winning the fantasy league, but in terms of fostering team spirit and camaraderie.
Offer Rewards: Incentivise participation with small prizes or recognition within the company.
Encourage Participation: Ensure everyone, regardless of their football knowledge, feels welcome to join and contribute.

A Global Trend

The rising popularity of fantasy football in the workplace is not confined to one region. It resonates globally, tapping into universal themes of competition, strategic thinking, and community. According to Harvard Business Review, gamification can lead to increased job satisfaction and productivity, which is precisely why companies around the world are adopting such strategies.

Conclusion

Fantasy football, a game of predicting outcomes, offers more than just entertainment. It can enhance productivity, build teamwork, and inject a dose of fun into the workplace. As companies seek innovative ways to engage employees, fantasy football stands out as a compelling choice with proven benefits.

Join the trend and see the positive impact it can have on your team!