National Hug Your Boss Day: Embracing Workplace Appreciation

Every September 13th marks National Hug Your Boss Day, a unique celebration aimed at fostering positive relationships between employees and their supervisors. This observance encourages showing appreciation for leadership through symbolic gestures of gratitude.

Quick Facts

  • When is it?: September 13th annually
  • Tagged as: Workplace appreciation day
  • What’s the hashtag?: #NationalHugYourBossDay
  • When was it founded?: 2008
  • Who founded it?TipTopJob.com

History

What started as an initiative to improve workplace relationships has evolved into a global phenomenon. TipTopJob.com created this day to boost workplace morale and encourage better communication between management and staff.

Timeline

  • 2008: First official celebration launched by TipTopJob.com
  • 2009: The celebration begins gaining popularity in workplaces
  • 2015: Social media adoption increases awareness
  • 2020: Virtual celebrations become common due to remote work

Upcoming Dates

YearDateDay
2025September 13Saturday
2026September 13Sunday
2027September 13Monday
2028September 13Wednesday
2029September 13Thursday

How It’s Observed

Most workplaces celebrate through symbolic gestures rather than actual hugs. Common activities include team lunches, appreciation cards, small gifts, or virtual celebrations for remote teams.

Fun Facts About Bosses

  • Women hold 15% of board seats in Fortune 500 companies
  • Over 11 million Americans work in management positions
  • 86% of Americans give their bosses positive ratings
  • 32% of employees occasionally defy their boss’s orders

Quiz

  1. When was National Hug Your Boss Day founded?
  2. Who created this holiday?
  3. What percentage of Americans rate their bosses positively?
    (Answers: 2008, TipTopJob.com, 86%)

FAQs

Q: Is it appropriate to actually hug your boss?
A: It’s best to ask permission and consider workplace culture. Alternative gestures of appreciation are often more appropriate.

Q: How can remote workers participate?
A: Through virtual celebrations, digital cards, or online team activities.

Importance of the Day

This observance helps break down hierarchical barriers, improves workplace communication, and provides an opportunity to acknowledge good leadership. It contributes to better team morale and productivity.

Related Observances

  • National Boss’s Day
  • Employee Appreciation Day
  • Professional Development Day
  • Workplace Kindness Day
  • Administrative Professionals Day