Keeping employees productive during the summer months can be a challenge for most managers. Between vacation planning, counting down days to their getaways and summer daydreaming, there’s a good chance that all the excitement and distractions of summer will curb employee productivity. Here are a few creative ideas on how to sustain productivity while giving your employees the room they need to enjoy the summer season.
Consider flexible scheduling
Give your employees some control over their summer schedule by allowing flex time. You can try something as simple as letting your employees come in late one day a week or allowing your employees to leave early one day a week at their choosing. Depending on the needs of your business, you can also consider a condensed work week during the summer season by allowing employees to work longer hours Monday through Thursday in order to have Fridays off.
Take meetings outside
Unplug from the technology noise in the office and host your next meeting outdoors! If you’re meeting with a larger group, try a shady spot under a tree. If your meeting is one-on-one, you can try a walking meeting around the office complex or at a nearby trail. Either way, you and your team will most likely come back energized and with a clearer, more focused mind.
Institute a fun summer tradition
Give your employees something to look forward to each week by instituting a fun summer tradition. You can try a coffee and doughnut break each Monday, or a jam session each Wednesday (and let a different person chose the music each week), or an ice cream sundae party each Friday.
Encourage breaks
Taking regular breaks from mental tasks can do wonders in terms of increasing productivity and creativity. Encourage your employees to eat their lunch away from their desks or to at least take a few minutes to go outside and enjoy the summer sun. They will come back feeling refreshed and focused.
Relax the dress code
Who wants to wear a business suit in ninety degree weather? It’s uncomfortable, it’s hot, and it’s becoming less of a norm in many offices across the country. If your business allows, try relaxing the dress code during the summer months by allowing your employees to dress more casual than normal.
Implementing new practices over the summer could actually increase employee productivity throughout the year – resulting in more efficiency, better customer service, increased customer loyalty, and increased employee retention. Have you had any success with increasing summer productivity and motivation in your office? Tell us your thoughts in the comments area below.
