It’s that time of year, again, where you eagerly mark the calendar while waiting for that first day. The anticipation builds as you watch TV and begin investigating the best deals. And no, I’m not talking about the kids going back to school.
 |
I’m talking about fantasy football! The preseason has just begun, and that means it’s time to start doing your research, finding your sleeper picks, and praying that Julio Jones doesn’t go out in the fifth week—again! Fantasy football has gained in popularity, and with that comes lost productivity in the workplace.
A recent report, conducted by Challenger, Gray & Christmas, Inc., shows that roughly 31 million employees across the country participate in fantasy football every year. This can lead to a $14 billion loss in productivity throughout the 15-week season. “It is important to understand that there are more distractions than ever in today’s workplace. If it’s not fantasy football, it’s the latest Hollywood gossip, shopping on Amazon, or checking Facebook,” said John A. Challenger, chief executive officer of Challenger, Gray & Christmas.
Challenger also says, “It may be immeasurable in terms of real dollars and cents, but undoubtedly there are managers, supervisors, and IT professionals who will attest to a slowdown in output from certain workers around this time of year.” While the season may—arguably—affect profits, IT professionals say that company Internet quality deteriorates this time of year due to employees making trades and checking stats.
However, Challenger also notes that fantasy football can help build company morale and—ironically—promote productivity. Challenger says, “Companies that not only allow workers to enjoy fantasy football but actually encourage it by organizing a company league are likely to see significant benefits in morale, which, in turn, leads to an overall boost in productivity as well as employee retention,” So if you’re looking for a way to foster company growth, try creating a fantasy league. Just be reminded that smack talking is mandatory in the message boards!