Managing Productivity During Euros 2024: HR Strategies

As anticipation builds for the Euro 2024 football tournament, set to take place from June 14 to July 14, 2024, HR teams across the continent are gearing up to tackle the challenges of maintaining productivity and staffing levels amidst the excitement.

With matches scheduled predominantly on weekdays, employers are recognising the need to proactively manage potential disruptions to the workday while also accommodating employees’ enthusiasm for the event.

Strategies for HR Teams:

• Flexible Working Hours: Implementing flexible working hours and staggered shifts to allow employees to watch key matches without compromising on work commitments.

• Remote Work Opportunities: Encouraging remote work on match days to strike a balance between work and viewing, facilitated by robust technology infrastructure.

• Viewing Areas: Designating specific areas within the workplace for employees to watch matches during breaks, fostering team bonding and morale.

• Productivity Management: Setting clear expectations regarding work output and leveraging project management tools to track progress and ensure accountability.

• Engagement Activities: Organising football-themed events and competitions to engage employees, offering prizes or incentives to boost participation. Additionally, providing alternative activities for employees who are not interested in Euro 2024, such as wellness workshops, team-building exercises, or volunteer opportunities.

• Communication: Keeping employees informed about any changes to work schedules or policies during Euro 2024 and fostering open communication to best support their engagement with the tournament while maintaining productivity.

In addition to these strategies, Adrian Lewis, Commercial Director at Activ People HR, emphasises the pivotal role of HR software in navigating staffing challenges during events like Euro 2024. Lewis states,

“HR software can be invaluable during events like Euro 2024. With features for managing annual leave and trigger points to prevent office levels from dropping too low, HR teams can efficiently navigate staffing challenges while accommodating employee preferences during this exciting time with Activ People HR.

Furthermore, with the tournament serving as a platform for team building and employee engagement, companies are seizing the opportunity to foster a sense of camaraderie among staff members. By organising viewing parties, themed competitions, and other Euro 2024-related activities, employers are not only supporting their employees’ passion for football but also strengthening bonds within the workplace.