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Lighter Load in Summer Months May Boost Morale
During the beautiful months of the year the last thing you want to do is complete a report or finish a project. It's easy for minds to wander out the windows of your business and into the sunshine. That's why so many companies are starting to incorporate a little fun into the job during the summer months. And they're finding it brings a boost to morale and even productivity.
You might want to ask for some input from a cross-section of employees to decide what direction to take. One approach is to set some parameters up front, such as customer service coverage requirements and budget constraints. Then ask for some ideas within those boundaries. What you will probably discover is that different people like different things. For instance, some people won't want to spend any more time with their co-workers than they have to, some people won't like picnics, while still others will argue about the value of a company outing. The key is to offer a few choices so that people can opt for some activities that match up with their preferences and lifestyles. Here are some ideas:
- For instance, even the most conservative companies are bending the dress code. Who wants to wear a tie or panty hose when it's 85 degrees? Casual dress is becoming the norm during the summer months. Even Wall Street firms often lift their necktie requirements.
- "Summer hours" are also gaining in popularity. Employees are given choices about how to structure their day, as long as they have coverage for customers and get the job done. Sometimes they start earlier in the day or even work shorter hours for less pay. Many close on Fridays at noon.
- Midweek picnics or barbecues are also a great way to take advantage of the summer and double as good social mixers and stress relievers. In one company I know, the management cooks burgers and hot dogs for the rest of the employees. When you throw in a game of volleyball or baseball, a little teambuilding is a great side benefit.
- Lunchtime is a good time to encourage people to go outside, since their minds are wandering there anyway. Many employers encourage employees to start walking or jogging clubs. And some even have brown bag seminars or book club meetings outside during the lunch hour.
- Summer picnics and outings such as baseball games are a tradition in many companies. It gives everyone a chance to meet family members and socialize.
- Planning retreats are a growing trend in some companies. The setting for the retreat is often a nice resort with a golf course or other amenities. Sometimes spouses are invited to join the group on the last day. Often, boating, golf, spas and other services help to combine business and pleasure.
One thing is clear; with summers so short in many parts of the country, companies who take advantage of the season, rather than fight against the fun of it, create healthier workplaces in the process.
Joan Lloyd works with executives and owners who want to improve the people side of their business, and with managers who want their employees to have a sense of ownership and commitment. She is a speaker and speaking coach, trainer & management consultant for companies of all sizes, from start-ups to the Fortune 500, as well as trade & professional associations across the country. Reach her at (800) 348-1944, Email info@joanlloyd.com, or www.JoanLloyd.com © Joan Lloyd & Associates, Inc. |
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