Benefits March 7, 2011

Most Bosses Don’t Mind a Little Madness

March 7, 2011 (PLANSPONSOR.com) – More than half (57%) of bosses polled by OfficeTeam said March Madness activities in the workplace, such as watching games or participating in pools that don’t involve money, are ok in moderation.
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According to an OfficeTeam press release, 11% said festivities around March Madness are welcome diversions.  However, a third contended they shouldn’t be allowed in the workplace.  

“As long as they don’t interfere with work, activities tied to sporting events can be great for morale,” said OfficeTeam executive director Robert Hosking, in the announcement. “Watching a game together or holding friendly contests provides opportunities for employees to build team spirit.”   

OfficeTeam also asked workers if they are ever distracted from their work by major sporting events, and 20% said yes.  

More men (36%) than women (6%) confessed to being distracted on the job by outside sporting events. Thirty-four percent of professionals between the ages of 18 and 34 admitted to being sidetracked, more than those in other age groups.  

The surveys of managers and workers were conducted by an independent research firm and include responses from 1,013 senior executives at companies with 20 or more employees and 437 workers 18 years of age or older and employed in office environments.

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