A Chiefs win tonight could be just what the Waikato economy needs, with workers likely to be more productive, according to one expert.

But if we lose, bosses should be bracing themselves for more than a few sickies.

Victoria University associate professor of psychology Marc Wilson said if the Chiefs won there could be a few sickies due to heavy partying following the match but a possible increase in productivity down the track.

But if they lost, it would be depression that kept employees away.

Dr Wilson said research showed people's self-esteem was derived from feeling part of something. So no matter what the outcome on Saturday, fans' mental state would be affected.

"If they win, expect to see a lot more cow bells and Chiefs memorabilia on display. Research shows that after a win people vicariously bask in the glory of the team's success.

"We like to show we are a part of something and our self-esteem benefits from that really. It's one of the reason we care about how sporting teams do."

Dr Wilson said while "particularly committed fans" might call in sick on Monday from the "after-effects" of celebrating, productivity would likely increase in those who turned up.

A British study in 2006, which surveyed 2000 workers, showed 40 per cent of men, and 47 per cent of women, said their team's win made them more productive. Only 3 per cent said a win made them more distracted and less productive. However, Dr Wilson said productivity could be down on Monday if the Chiefs lose. "For people that care strongly, in the event of a loss, they will be depressed for at least a few days. We are not talking clinical depression here, but for a few days it will look like it.

"People will feel blue and have trouble getting out of bed."

But some of the region's biggest employers don't seem too concerned about the result.

Gallagher corporate services executive Margaret Comer said while they were right behind the team - being corporate sponsors - she thought staff would show up on Monday even if the team lost.

"It would be a day of mourning should that unfortunately happen, but I'm sure the staff would be here."

Waikato University spokeswoman Lisa Finucane said they too were hoping for a win. "We're all backing the Chiefs to win, but should the worst happen, I'm confident that students and staff will be here on Monday."

- © Fairfax NZ News

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