The return of Game of Thrones provoked a huge spike in employee lateness.
A study estimates there was a 21.5 per cent increase in the number of tardy workers on April 15 as a result of thousands of people across the country staying up to watch the season eight premiere of the hugely popular medieval fantasy drama.
The new episode - the first for two years - aired at the unholy hour of 2am on Monday - prime time in the USA with time difference.
There are five more episodes left in what is the final series, so this could become something of a trend.
Data from HR software firm BrightHR has revealed the sharp rise in the number of employees turning up late to work, despite the fact the episode aired for a second time later on Monday at 9pm.
The company has offered advice for any bosses miffed by their employee's behaviour.
For any employers dealing with an increase in the number of employees being late today, Alistair Brown, chief technical officer at BrightHR said: “At BrightHR, we advise employers that prevention is the best tactic when it comes to reducing employee lateness.
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“Employers should ensure they have implemented an up-to-date policy, regarding employee conduct and a procedure for notifying someone when an employee is going to be late.
“Start by having an informal discussion with the employee.
"If you haven’t raised it with them before they may be under the impression that their lateness does not matter. Speaking to them informally highlights to the employee that you have noticed their behaviour but are giving them a chance to improve.
“Employers should also consider offering flexible working, which is becoming far more common in UK workplaces.
"With flexible work, there is no lateness. You just need your staff to work their total contracted hours.”
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He added: “Start with the basics.
"Get a policy in place and make sure your staff knows what you expect from them. Such a small change should sort your staff lateness problem.”
