The TUC has urged bosses not to score an own goal during the World Cup, and to allow staff who wish to watch televised games to do so, either away from work or if appropriate, somewhere on the company’s premises.
Rather than showing staff the red card for throwing ‘sickies’ in order to catch the games from South Africa, next month’s football tournament could be a perfect opportunity for employers to test out making more use of flexible working hours.
Many workplaces already operate a system of flexitime which allows staff the freedom beyond their core hours to come in early and go home early, or get into work late and leave the office later. Those that don’t yet, might find it’s a win-win for their staff and their business.
Employers should also bear in mind the one in five UK employees who work outside core hours, many of whom will also want to watch the World Cup, as well as UK based workers of different nationalities who want to watch their home team.
The TUC’s Brendan Barber said:
“Of course some people won’t want to watch the World Cup, but for those who would like to follow games at home, in the pub, or on the radio or internet at work, the best way to ease tensions is for employers to discuss the issue with staff.
Rather than impose a blanket ban on football, and run the risk of de-motivating staff and losing hours through unauthorised sick days, we would encourage employers to let people watch the games if they like – and claim back their time afterwards. That way, everyone wins.”
Whether it’s about major events like the World Cup or just picking up the kids from school, allowing people more flexibility in how and when they do their work makes them happier, cutting absenteeism and raising productivity for their employers.
Check out our advice on working through the World Cup.
written on May 27, 2010
filed under: work / life balance work advice
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