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24 May 2010

The world cup to be held in South Africa is nearly here, with over 30 nations being represented. As the UK workforce continues to diversify, employers realise that their will be those with backgrounds from all over the world hoping to watch their country in action.

At a time when employers are likely expecting staff absence to increase, many are using the world cup as an opportunity to rebuild staff morale which has been hit hard by the recession. Business can also consider steps to ensure that their employees can enjoy the tournament without compromising the needs of the business, what are they?

Practical Solutions
Shift Swap
Allow staff to rearrange their shifts around the football matches they want to watch, providing they can find the appropriate level of cover.

Flexible Hours
Allow staff to start or finish early, while ensuring that core hours are covered.
Consider allowing staff time off providing they make up the time up on another day.

Unpaid Leave
Employers could consider granting authorised unpaid leave for employee providing this does not interfere with business requirements.

How can technology help?
Tracking Games on the Internet
Employers should remind their employees of their internet policies. The internet will of course provide a wealth of information, including minute by minute updates; it is up to employers to decide what permissions they will allow their staff in this regard.

Screenings
If appropriate employers may wish to consider screening football matches on their premises. This may provide a good opportunity to build team spirit however, it should also be remembered that not everyone will share the interest shown by there colleagues so they shouldn’t be made to feel excluded if they don’t want to participate.

Background TV/Radio screenings/Matches Screened in Break Areas
This option may allow staff to keep up date with the latest developments but employers should also beware of the possible drawbacks. This may prove a distraction to some and colleagues may resent working harder to compensate for this. There may also be health and safety implications to consider such as risks occurring from staff paying less than full attention.

If football matched are screened in break areas some employees may find it hard to return to work once their break is over or they may be tempted to sneak back for an update during working time.

Dealing with Absence
Absence Due to Alcohol Misuse
Remind employees of the organisations policy of absence and alcohol misuse. Make it clear that it is not acceptable to take sick leave to watch football matches or to recover from the night before! It is also unacceptable to turn up to work while so hung over they are unable to do any work, employers should make it clear what they expect of their employees and the resulting consequences which may follow by not adhering to policies and procedures.

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