Newswise — As college basketball programs across the country begin to make the final push for the NCAA's "big dance," millions of fans are taking advantage of the 24-hour sports news cycle to stay updated on all the scores that could affect their teams' chances of postseason play. When the tournament finally begins, these same fans will be looking to follow games through the streaming online video services offered by CBS, the NCAA's official network. Claire Simmers, Ph.D., associate professor of management at Saint Joseph's University in Philadelphia, believes that following games during the day can provide a challenge to employers and employees alike.
"With streaming services and portable devices like iPhones, you can watch these games anywhere," Simmers says. "As an employer, you have to be up front with your employees and say 'We know that exciting things are happening, but we're interested in outcomes. If you can get your work done and follow the tournament without shirking your responsibilities, by all means watch the games.'"
For employees, Simmers rejects the idea of a "boss button" " a program that will cover the video window with an official-looking spreadsheet " in favor of complete honesty with the manager in charge. "I would assure my boss that I can get my job done by working during commercials, before games, or with the video running behind whatever I'm working on," she says. If you don't work in an office, Simmers suggests finding a different way to enjoy the games. "If you're a Wal-Mart greeter, for instance, arrange to take your breaks in the TV department.
"I wouldn't jeopardize my career just to catch a few minutes of a game," Simmers says. "Instead, I'd work to create a situation with maximum flexibility. If you reach that level of honesty with your boss, then you won't need to keep looking over your shoulder."
RSS