On a recent episode of the comedy series “The Office,” the Dunder Mifflin employees get word that the company may file for bankruptcy. Bumbling boss Michael Scott pulls out a murder mystery game and assigns everyone a character. It works. The employees get into character and it takes their minds off the prospect of losing their jobs.

In the difficult times companies have been facing in last several months, keeping company morale at, well, at least a decent level can be quite a challenge. A round of layoffs can leave the remaining employees overworked, stressed, worried they’re next and feeling guilty because they kept their jobs and others didn’t.

Forget team building activities, company picnics or bringing in a big lunch on Fridays – the budget is way too stretched for such niceties. Yet keeping employee morale up and letting employees know you appreciate them is more important now than it’s ever been. It’s much easier for employees to be creative, productive and happy when times are good and the bills are paid.

So how do you keep employees feeling good about coming to work each day? How do you keep spirits up and stress levels manageable?

Remember, fun doesn’t have to be expensive. Here’s an article on a company that gives out bobbleheads and had a “wallyball” tournament at lunchtime (free).

• Have employees bring their lunch to work and set up the projector in the conference room and watch a funny sitcom.
• Let employees work from home one day a week, saving them gas money and travel time. 
• Something as simple as a thank-you note and a pat on the back can go a long way toward boosting workers’ spirits.
• Have a lunchtime scavenger hunt around the office and give the winner a $10 Starbucks card. Company cost: $10.
• If you can’t afford a holiday party this year, do a lunchtime potluck with employees bringing in dishes to share.

What ideas do you have? How are you keeping your employees motivated and their morale up during tough times?