Despite initial fears of absenteeism, the majority of British businesses say they expect their productivity to increase during the World Cup due to changes in working practices.
New research from Business Link, the government’s business support service, reveals that 60% of businesses plan to use flexible working practices during the competition, which kicks off today, to help staff work their time around the World Cup schedule.
Some businesses said they are extending this to allow flexi-time for employees supporting different countries.
The poll found that 62% of employers believe their employees are more enthusiastic at work when given the opportunity to follow the World Cup with their colleagues.
“Handled the right way, the World Cup can bring energy into the workplace and provide a great way for employers to trial longer-term flexible working practices,” said Kim Fletcher, of Business Link Kent.
“Bringing in a TV may sound like a distraction, but with just under half of businesses saying they will show the matches at work, it is more likely to bring people together.”
She added that allowing staff more control of their working life can also lead to lower absenteeism, a less-stressed workforce and promotes a company as one that people want to work for.
The poll also found that exactly half of respondents believe that should England win the World Cup, their business will see a boost in productivity.
