Summer sporting events ''perfect time to implement flexible benefits''

Bosses should implement fleixble benefits during sporting events to improve employee engagement, an expert has said.

Ruth Spellman, chief executive of the Chartered Management Institute, accepted that major summer sports carry a risk of lost productivity.

But she also said that rubber-stamping flexible working to allow staff to watch games could be beneficial to business.

Ms Spellman said that giving staff this level of choice and control provides "a greater sense of responsibility and this can help boost motivation levels and overall commitment".

She recommended that employers establish firm policies relating to alcohol and absence management during sports tournaments as well.

But allowing people to enjoy the games could improve employee engagement by encouraging good morale within the workplace, she explained.

James Caan recently used a Telegraph article to promote flexible working to help staff motivation in the wake of the Budget cuts.

He also suggested employee discounts and time off can lead to improved productivity. Back