Most people look forward to the summertime! The days are longer, the weather is warmer, and activities, festivals, cookouts and vacations are in full swing. Unfortunately, once an employee has entered the workplace, the idea of summer break is long gone; however, the same energy and enthusiasm that accompanies summer break doesn’t need to be left behind. As an employer, you can take steps to keep your employees motivated during the lazy days of summer.
Building summertime enthusiasm
To help your employees stay positive, focused and productive during the summer months, follow these three tips:
- Offer a flexible work schedule. Incentives are incredibly motivating. Studies show that rigid 9–5 days and 40-hour workweeks can be harmful to the productivity of your staff. Shake things up a bit during the summertime by offering your employees flexible scheduling. Consider shifting work hours to accommodate late arrivals or early dismissals. Or, allow employees to work an extra hour each day in order to take a half-day on Fridays.
- Schedule staff events. Company outings and events allow employees to relax, communicate and interact outside of day-to-day job responsibilities. Why not take advantage of the warmer weather and hold scheduled events outside and off-site? Ideas include team-building activities, or company-wide picnics at a local amusement park or other outdoor location. Schedule your event during work hours so employees don’t become overburdened with activities in addition to job responsibilities during the busy summer months. You might also consider holding a department dinner or happy hour as a thank you to employees for their hard work throughout the year.
- Allow dress-down days. If you company doesn’t already, allow for a casual day once per week during the summertime. To help this process run smoothly, work with your human resources department to draft a dress code that must be followed during casual dress days, and circulate this to all employees in advance. If your company already allows casual days, simply tack a few more onto the schedule during the summer months.
Help your employees stay on task during the summer by implementing a few easy changes. By loosening up the rules just a little, you can help your employees feel more relaxed and appreciated. This can add to their motivation and productivity during a time when it may be more difficult to focus. It will be worth it as everyone breathes just a little easier during the summer months!
