AXA PPP has released tips to reduce absenteeism during the World Cup alongside research highlighting effects on productivity due to late nights.
In a poll of 2,000 employees, 57% admitted they'd turned up for work feeling tired on at least one occasion in the past three months, with 52% agreeing it had adversely affected their performance.
Forty per cent said they ‘coasted' through the day, only finishing easy tasks; 18% said they only managed to do ‘bits and pieces' and 6% cent barely did anything. The remainder felt they got most of their work done but not as productively as normal.
Dr Steve Iley, AXA PPP healthcare's occupational health director, said: "With the prospect of some late nights in store for followers of the festivities in Brazil, employers would do well to remind their staff of their attendance policies before it all kicks off.
"Of course employees will struggle to give 100% when they're ill but otherwise they owe it to their employers to turn up for work in good enough shape to put in a decent shift."
AXA PPP's healthcare guide to minimising absenteeism
Consider flexible working
If possible, consider adopting a temporary policy of being flexible about working hours. Allowing employees to leave an hour earlier may enable them to watch a particular event in full. Similarly, for evening matches, consider allowing employees to start work an hour later the following day to encourage attendance after a late night. You could also consider allowing employees to shorten their lunch break to 20 minutes or allow shift workers to swap shifts with suitable willing colleagues.
Apply policies to all employees - not just the sports fans
Avoid potential conflict in the workplace by ensuring that you offer similar opportunities to individuals not interested in sporting events.
Communicate your attendance policy
Remind all employees of their responsibilities for attending work as set out in your organisation's attendance policy and the procedures you may take in the event of unauthorised absence.
Screen key events at work
If practicable, consider screening certain matches or events at work to minimise disruption and encourage attendance.
Internet use
Employees with online access may wish to watch or listen to events or check the latest scores or results so it's important to have a clear policy in place to deal with this and make sure your employees are aware what is allowed. Consider allowing employees to check the latest news during breaks or at set times during the day. Whatever you decide, make sure you communicate it clearly and be prepared to take effective action should anyone disregard it.
