Game On! Five things to consider before the World Cup starts
With the FIFA World Cup getting underway on 11th June, football is likely to become a regular topic of conversation in your workplace over the coming weeks.
The tournament runs until 19th July and with matches taking place across the USA, Canada and Mexico, the time difference means that while many games will fall outside normal working hours, some fixtures will run late into the evening for UK viewers. As the tournament progresses, it's worth considering how this could affect your employees and whether a few simple reminders or adjustments might be needed.
Be Prepared for Annual Leave Requests
As excitement builds, you may see an increase in annual leave requests, particularly around key fixtures involving the home nations or the later knockout stages.
If you haven't done so already, consider reminding employees of your usual leave request procedures and ensure managers are applying them fairly and consistently.
Think About 'The Morning After'
While matches are unlikely to disrupt the working day directly, some employees will no doubt be staying up late to watch games.
Where it works for your business, you may wish to consider temporary flexibility, such as:
- Later start times
- Flexible hours
- Home working arrangements
A practical approach can help support employee wellbeing while maintaining productivity. In some cases, offering a little flexibility may also help reduce unplanned absences by giving employees a sensible way to balance late night viewing with their work commitments.
Set Expectations Around Workplace Behaviour
Football can be emotional, particularly as the tournament reaches the knockout stages.
While friendly banter is often part of the fun, it's worth reminding employees that workplace standards still apply. Comments relating to nationality, race, ethnicity, religion or other protected characteristics can quickly move beyond harmless conversation and create employee relations issues.
A simple reminder about respectful behaviour can help everyone enjoy the tournament appropriately.
Keep Activities Inclusive
Sweepstakes, prediction competitions and themed events can be a great way to create some workplace engagement during the tournament.
However, not everyone follows football, so it's important that any activities remain voluntary and inclusive. The aim should be to bring people together, not make anyone feel excluded.
Communicate Early
A short communication before the tournament begins can help set expectations around annual leave, flexible working requests, workplace behaviour and any activities you may be planning.
Clear communication now can help prevent misunderstandings later.
Final Thoughts
For most businesses, the World Cup won't require any special policies or major planning. However, a little preparation now can help you avoid unnecessary issues and make the most of the positive atmosphere that major sporting events often bring.
If the World Cup excitement does cause any unexpected sick days or no-shows, we’re here to help.
Whether it’s AWOL issues, time off requests or managing flexible working fairly, just
get in touch, we’ve got you covered.
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