Making concessions
On 20 November the FIFA Men’s World Cup kick’s off with nations competing to lift the coveted Jules Rimet Trophy.
Many employees will be eager to watch the world’s top players represent their countries across the 4-week tournament.
The competition is being hosted in Qatar meaning that some matches will be taking place during working hours and late in the evening. This presents employers with a choice between continuing business as usual or making some concessions.
Making concessions may be worthwhile as they could help to promote morale, reduce time keeping issues, limit staff absence and minimise conflict.
Practical considerations
The CIPD and Personnel Today propose employers consider the following:
- Adjust working hours – allow employees to take breaks during matches, leave work early or start work late.
- Offer home working – permit employees to work from home on match days.
- Permit time off – approve holiday requests from those employees who want to take days off.
- Use of mobile phones/work computer – consent to staff usingdevices to follow updates on matches.
- Televise matches at work – give staff the option to watch and accept that this may mean some downtime.
- Provide special facilities – create breakout areas where staff can watch games.
- Decorate the workplace and run events – embrace the tournament and boost morale.
- Be wary of bullying and harassment – passions can run high during sporting events so it’s important to ensure that any misconduct is challenged and handled appropriately.
An employer’s ability to offer such concessions will depend on the nature of their business and it may not always be appropriate. In circumstances where this is the case, it’s a good idea to engage staff and explain why. This will help to minimise any dissatisfaction on part of your employers.
Should an employer decide to make concessions, it’s important to do so with care. Take the initiative and inform employees in advance of any provisions or changes in conditions you intend to make. Be clear what the rules are and make sure to apply them consistently. Treat employees fairly by ensuring that all fans are catered for regardless of their national alliance.
Contact JS Recruitment
JS Recruitment can offer expert advice and guidance to help your organisation find the best candidates. For further information contact us on 01977 269069 or info@jsrecruitmentuk.com
