Hear that? That’s summer knocking on your office door. But as much as you want to hit the beach or pool, that pesky 9-5 can get in your way. No doubt you’re not the only one wishing you were somewhere else besides work. Research has shown that summertime productivity suffers and can have a negative impact in the office. For example, a recent study shows that employees’ productivity decreases 20% and projects take 13% longer to complete. So, yes, we think summeritis can take a toll. As a business leader, it’s up to you to make sure that it doesn’t impact your business. Rather, if you follow our advice, you just might be able to keep your team motivated and productive from June to August (and hopefully always!)
1. Plan a Summer Activity
There’s no better way to bond with your teammates than with a fun activity everyone can enjoy. We recommend a fun night of games and drinks at an arcade, a company trip to go bowling, or happy hour at your local hotspot. Maybe pick two activities to do over the summer so your team has something fun to look forward to. With activities like these it will breathe a little life into your team, and a happy team is a productive team.
2. Promote a Giveaway
It’s time to bring out the summer raffle. Let your employees earn raffle tickets for going the extra mile in their work and raffle off great items. This will be a fun and sure way employees stay motivated to do their best even through the summer months. For winning prizes, we recommend tickets to a basketball game, free movie tickets, and the main prize could be a cool gadget like a smartwatch.
3. Establish a Casual Dress Code
Change things up during the summer with a business casual dress code. It’ll be a nice and welcome change from the full suit and tie wardrobe and your employees will be happy to dress more comfortably during the summer heat.
4. Supply Cold Beverages and Catered Lunches
Catered lunches are a great treat for you and your team. And beat the heat by supplying your team with cold beverages like smoothies or pressed juices. Or cast a vote among your employees to choose their favorite beverage that will keep them cool through the summer. This is a great way to show your appreciation to your employees and thank them for all of their hard work. Plus, having lunch together is added bonding time.
5. Vacations
Encourage your employees to take their vacation days. Burn out is all too real and harmful to an employee’s productivity and job satisfaction and that’s no fun for anyone. So encourage your employees to take their vacations so that they can recharge and come back to work even more motivated.