With the 2010 World Cup nearly upon us, the chances are that a large proportion of employees across the UK are already thinking about how and where they will be watching the key games.

Business Link is urging businesses across the East Midlands to take effective steps to ensure they are fully prepared for one of the biggest sporting events of the year.  

A recent PricewaterhouseCoopers poll* found that one in four employees is planning to watch the tournament in working hours, highlighting the need for businesses to prepare for key staff members taking holiday leave or requesting flexible working hours. 

Stephen Smith, Chief Executive of EMB Ltd, the organisation responsible for delivering the regional Business Link service says: "Many businesses understand the importance of major sporting events, especially the World Cup, and many have told us of their plans to ensure staff are able to watch games on large screen TVs during breaks. Some have even seen the tournament as a unique opportunity to build team morale by organising football-themed evening events that staff can be involved in.

"Staff motivation is a key part of business success. To be the best our businesses have to recruit and retain the best, and events like this help to motivate staff. Our locally-based advisers have been working with clients to ensure events like the World Cup can be successfully incorporated into the work-life balance. By going this 'extra mile' many will be seen as an employer of choice and be appreciated by staff. Business Link is on hand to help the region's businesses draw up policies and procedures to avoid 'World Cup fever' and ensure their staff are kept happy and motivated… that is, of course, unless England loses!"

Stephen Smith continues: "The World Cup will lead to a number of people wanting time off to enjoy the games. As a result, employers need to prepare for an increase in annual leave requests and the effect this will have on their business.  

"It's important to communicate to your staff exactly what your plans are for the World Cup. Your flexibility and innovation will be welcomed by staff and will increase morale."

The World Cup kicks off on Friday 11 June at 3pm with England's first game against the USA on Saturday 12 June at 7.30pm.