The anticipation is mounting for the FIFA World Cup, kicking off on 12th June to 13th July this year. Unsurprisingly, we see a huge rise in attendance and conduct issues around this time, as people are desperate to catch those potential moments of victory.
If you are not careful, you may be left wondering how the work ethic ended up on the pitch (or most likely the sofa). Here are 7 things to watch out for:
- A change of priorities: More than 25% of people said they would be willing to miss the birth of their first son or daughter if it clashed with England’s appearance in the World Cup final, according to a survey by online bookmaker Partybets. Staff taking sick days from work increase at this time, so make arrangements to handle the important things in case staff come down with FIFAitis.
- Remind staff of your sickness and absence policy in advance of the world cup. Ensure that employees know the process in which to report an absence, and that a return to work interview will be conducted upon their return, which will discuss their reason for absence.
- If you have reasonable grounds to believe their sickness was not genuine, it may be appropriate to proceed with disciplinary action.
- Think flexibly: Allowing employees to start and finish work early is a simple way to thank and engage them for the hard work they are putting in. Flexible working policies are a good way to show that the Company recognises interests outside of work, and reinforces a respect for work life balance.
- Encourage teams to look at the schedule of matches and organise it between them so that everyone gets to see some of the key games.
- A buddy up system could be an option whereby two employees organise cover for each other for time off to watch games. If one of the employees is not interested in football they would still have the opportunity to take time off.
- Booked holidays: Remind employees of your first come, first served policy when it comes to booking holiday, and consider whether or not you may allow for a greater number of people to have time off during this period. Bear in mind that not everyone will be supporting the same teams so ensure that whatever policy you have that it is consistent, and benefits everyone equally!
- If there is a lot of competing holiday bookings, consider offering an incentive for those willing to work on the days where popular games are on, by offering a gift voucher or an extra quarter day holiday.
- Screening the games at work: Colleagues may really appreciate the chance to enjoy the games together. If you are planning on sorting out a TV and screening some major games, make sure to get that TV licence to go with it. For those who are not interested in the games, they do not need to be subject to it; keep the screening area separate so as not to cause a disruption.
- You may choose to set up a rota for watching the games, whereby employees draw lots for either the first or second half of the game so that people know in advance that they will see part but not the entire match.
- Morale: Highs and lows may become apparent in the office, as well as potential divisions between employees who support competing teams. Make sure you do not take sides as a corporation, as some staff members supporting other countries may feel ostracised. Keep an ear out for racist or offensive comments and make it clear that such behaviour will not be tolerated.
- Computer usage: Live streaming through computers and checking the scores though mobile apps can wreak havoc on productivity. Ensure that your policy outlines what is appropriate and inappropriate use of office equipment (including duration of use).
- Take time to enjoy the games: Appreciate the excitement that comes with the World Cup, get your game plan in order and then make the most of it!
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