The World Cup - Are You Ready?

With the football World Cup due to start shortly, employers who have not already done so should ensure they have policies in place to deal with any issues likely to arise and that employees fully understand them. Whilst you are under no obligation to make adjustments to cater for employees’ who wish to watch the games, if you are able to offer some degree of flexibility during such events it is an opportunity to improve employee motivation and morale.

Some matches will be televised during the day, so it is important to make sure staff fully understand your policy regarding notice for taking annual leave in order to watch a game and that you communicate what disciplinary action will be taken in the event of unauthorised absences. Matches will also be available online, so how you are going to deal with that particular problem also needs thought.

If you are considering adopting flexible working arrangements, these should not discriminate against staff who support teams other than England. Nor should any arrangements made have an adverse effect on workers who have no interest in football.

Also, staff should be aware that any racist conduct or comments will not be tolerated and your organisation’s drink policy should be made clear.

If you have not yet made preparations to manage any World Cup related issues, useful guidance can be found on the website of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Development.