Most people would probably never consider hugging their boss, not only because many people don’t particularly think about their boss in a friendly manner, or because such an encounter would likely result in a visit to HR. That’s why it might seem unsettling to think that September 13th is observed as National Hug Your Boss Day.

This day encourages people to symbolically hug their bosses and improve their inter-office professional relationships. No, it doesn’t mean grabbing your boss and giving them a big bear hug but instead motivates employees and employers to come together in a way that fosters cooperation, improved productivity, and ultimately, better morale.

The History of National Hug Your Boss Day

This holiday was created in 2008 by Tip Top Job. They founded National Hug Your Boss Day as a way to improve workplace relationships between employees and employers. It has been seen ever since as a way to improve morale, productivity, and workplace cooperation.

Some Quick Facts About American Employers

Since we’re on the subject of employers, we thought we’d take a moment to list some quick facts that we learned about American bosses while researching this holiday. We think the following factoids will prove educational to anyone thinking about observing this holiday.

• Women hold 15% of all board seats at Fortune 500 companies.
• More than 11 million people in the U.S. are employed in management occupations.
• Although 86% of Americans give their bosses a good grade, approximately 32% of employees defy their boss’s orders.
• More people are celebrating holidays such as National Boss Day than ever before. That’s why Hallmark nearly doubled their line of these cards in 2007.

Observing National Hug Your Boss Day

National Hug Your Boss Day is observed in workplaces all around the United States and can be observed in several different ways. Although hugging your boss is not something that can be done in many workplaces, employees can send their bosses a virtual hug or a gift.

There can also be workplace parties thrown, with the employer’s permission, of course, that can give employees a way to give thanks to their boss.