11/06/2026
The build-up to the World Cup is in full swing, and lots of businesses are organising various events to help build employee engagement.
For a lot of workplaces, this means the office sweepstake โฝ๐.
Sweepstakes are a great way to bring colleagues together. A few pounds here and there might seem harmless, but over the years we've seen a surprising number of workplace disputes linked to sweepstakes, collections, and social funds.
Most of the time they're great for morale, create some friendly banter, and boost engagement. However, it's important that both employers and employees take a few simple steps to make sure everything runs smoothly. You donโt want things to go wrong โ the feeling of missing money leaves a bad taste with employees that is hard to get over.
A few simple do's and don'ts:
โ
Nominate one person to organise and manage the sweepstake
โ
Keep a clear record of who has paid and how much
โ
Make sure everyone understands the rules from the outset
โ
Store any cash securely or, better still, use electronic payments where you can
โ
Check how much has been collected
โ Don't leave cash lying around on desks or in unlocked drawers
โ Don't make participation feel mandatory
โ Don't change the rules once the competition has started
โ Don't assume everyone follows football or wants to get involved
For employers, it's worth remembering that if money goes missing, accusations start flying, or disputes arise over winnings, what started as a bit of fun can quickly become an employee relations headache. We've had to deal with a few of these issues in our time.
If you're planning a sweepstake this year, make sure the only thing going missing during the tournament is Scotland's bad luck as we make our way to the knockout rounds! ๐โฝ ๐ด๓ ง๓ ข๓ ณ๓ ฃ๓ ด๓ ฟ
