Press Releases

• Executives also find tournament-related celebrations boost productivity
• 66 per cent of employers organize festivities for sporting events like March Madness or the Stanley Cup Finals; friendly competitions and wearing team apparel are the most common

TORONTO, March 5, 2019 /CNW/ - Are sports-related celebrations in the office a win for workers and employers? In new research from global staffing firm Robert Half, 68 per cent of senior managers in Canada said sports activities (such as those around March Madness or the Stanley Cup Finals) have a positive impact on staff morale. Half of survey respondents (50 per cent) also see productivity benefits.

Many employers are ready to play ball: 66 per cent of companies organize sports-related festivities. Friendly competitions (37 per cent) and wearing team apparel (34 per cent) top the list of activities offered.

"Rather than downplay excitement around major sporting events, many organizations welcome the distraction as an opportunity to build team engagement and camaraderie," said Koula Vasilopoulos, a district president for OfficeTeam, a division of Robert Half. "As long as employees respect company guidelines and work priorities, fun activities like jersey days or cubicle decorating contests can help lift morale without hindering productivity."

About the Research
The online survey was developed by Robert Half and conducted by an independent research firm. It includes responses from more than 600 senior managers at companies with 20 or more employees in Canada.

About Robert Half
Founded in 1948, Robert Half is the world's first and largest specialized staffing firm. The company has more than 300 staffing locations worldwide and offers online job search services on its divisional websites, all of which can be accessed at roberthalf.ca. For additional career and management advice, follow our blog at roberthalf.ca/blog.

SOURCE Robert Half Canada