BOSSES in the Bolton and Bury area are being advised on how to manage their “team” successfully during the UEFA Euro 2016 matches.

HR expert Karen Pilkington, from The HR Dept in Bolton, warned that, because many football-loviing staff members in all kinds of local companies may be keen to watch the Euros’ matches, it was important to have a policy in place.

She advises a five-point plan to get businesses happily through the Euros’ matches:

* Fair Play – “With afternoon and evening games scheduled, conflicting holiday requests may come your way,” she explained. “Be as accommodating as you can – rather than book holidays, could staff watch a game and then work extra time? When tough decisions need to be made, stick to your policies and be fair.”

* Be Wary of Fakers – “Just as footballers have taken to diving to get their way, some employees may be tempted to pull a sickie. Remind employees what’s expected of them and of the disciplinary process for foul play.”

* Yellow cards for Time-wasting – “Time-wasting is an infuriating tactic in football and it could be just as maddening in your workplace. Could staff be surreptitiously watching games on their computers (an internet policy will help here) or on their own devices? Employees are bound to chat about the tournament, but make sure such conversations don’t become excessive.”

* Staying Match-fit – “Big sporting events and booze go hand in hand. Considering many games are scheduled for the evenings, it’s worth being extra vigilant during the Euros. This shouldn’t call for random breathalyser tests, but it does mean checking your alcohol and drug policies are set up to protect you and your team. Hungover staff are much less able to pull their weight!”

* The Beautiful Game – “It’s not all about policies and discipline. Tap into the feelgood factor of the Euros to boost staff morale. Run a sweepstake or host a social event based around one of the games. These are easy and popular ways to engage with staff and, most importantly, have fun! Remember, although many who aren’t normally enthused by the sport will be happy to get involved, some won’t be so willing and may find the whole thing tedious. That’s something to keep in mind.”

Added Ms Pilkiington: “Managed properly, national sporting celebrations are something to be celebrated. So do just that, and take advantage of the atmosphere and excitement.”