Employers advised to embrace the 2010 Football World Cup

Recent news stories in the press are urging employers to embrace, rather than ignore, the Football World Cup this summer if they wish to keep absence rates to a minimum.

According to Deloitte's human capital director Gert de Beer, many workers will be determined to watch England games scheduled during the working day, and will even stay off work if necessary.

As a result, HR departments must develop strategies which balance both the interests of the company - keeping attendance and productivity levels high - and those of the general workforce, he suggested.

Mr de Beer stated: "Employers need to ensure that positive morale is built up around the World Cup and put appropriate measures in place."

Although flexible working hours and home working could be an option for some, Sportsworld feel it actually provides a real opportunity for businesses to get involved and do something positive for team morale themselves. 

While some firms could set up screening rooms, allowing employees to watch matches from the office, they could also use one of the official World Cup screening events as part of a staff incentive trip, employee competition, staff summer party or just to say thank you for hard-work contributed over the year.

Taking place in London, at Old Billingsgate Market and the Artillery Garden at the HAC, and also regionally across the UK, prices start from just £119 per person for a table of 10 which includes full hospitality and a live screening of a the England matches. More information can be found here.

It is important to remember that employees are people with needs and interests that extend beyond their jobs and for employees to openly recognise this and use it to reward, could work wonders in the work place.

It is also crucial to take this point into account, especially as the UK prepares to host its own major international sporting event in the London 2012 Olympic Games.