Shining Bright: 10 Proven Tips to Keep Office Engagement High During Sunny Summers
Working during the summer can be tough. Feeling caged in the office whilst the sun is blazing? I hear you!
Our health and well-being at work should be nurtured always, but in the summer, employees want to be at work less, and instead out enjoying the sunshine! So how can we keep employees engaged and keep the workforce productive, whilst also encouraging them to experience the best of summer. Here’s a few ideas……
Summer Socials
Instead of drinks after work, set aside some afternoons for company picnics to promote social interaction and a dose of vitamin D. Having lunch with your colleagues is a great effortless and natural team building exercise that gives back two-fold as a company investment, by encouraging them to take a healthy lunch break outside to keep their metabolism going strong ahead of the afternoon’s meetings and ‘to do list’. And perhaps tie it in with an outdoor event such as Wimbledon, watch it on the big screen at work, at a venue or find your nearest spot here.
Summer Challenges
Why not set up challenges that employees can complete throughout the summer. It is after all the serotonin season (the hormone responsible for stabilizing feeling of well-being) Why not take this opportunity when happy hormones and energy levels can be at their highest to set challenges that can be the start of some life-changing new habits. Some ideas include;
The H20 Challenge
In the summer, we should drink more water to prevent dehydration, regulate body temperature and maintain healthy skin and digestion. Keep your team on track with a water challenge based on at least 8 pints of water a day.
Start a new summer hobby challenge
The summer months bring a great opportunity for employees to find a new hobby. Outdoor photography, hiking, yoga, sports. Challenge employees to start one new hobby this summer and share and follow everyone’s progress within your internal communications.
Help others challenge
Volunteering is an excellent summer activity that helps reduce stress and boost well-being. Challenge employees to spend at least 10 hours volunteering in the community over the summer. You can even take a work outing to volunteer together as a team.
Meditation challenge
The summertime can be stressful on employees. Trying to juggle family obligations as well as tight deadlines can take its toll. Help employees reduce stress by challenging them to take five minutes a day to meditate or practice a deep breathing technique.
Get outside challenge
Nature makes us happy and improves our overall mood. It boosts endorphin levels and dopamine production, which promotes happiness. Summer is the perfect time for your employees to rediscover nature. Challenge employees to spend at least 15 minutes outside every day of summer (ask for photo evidence to inspire others and make this a real challenge)
Summer Breaks
It’s official holiday season so encourage employees to take time off to enjoy their summer, give incentives for a ‘feel good Friday’ early finish, encourage longer lunch breaks to allow employees to stay engaged in work-life whilst enjoying their summer. Lead by example with this being a real break- full digital detox to boost mental health and overall well-being and encourage breaking away from the ‘doing’ and embrace the ‘being’.
Summer Play
Team building is a great way to encourage employees to focus on their health and well-being. These activities can significantly help employees develop relationships, boost morale, encourage motivation, hone leadership skills and improve cross-department communications. There are so many activities to choose from, start the journey by asking your employees what they would like to do, with insight comes inspiration!
As the sunny summer days beckon, it's crucial to strike a balance between work and enjoyment. By implementing these practical tips, you can ensure that your office remains a vibrant and engaged environment, even when the sun is shining outside! Remember, a motivated and content team is not only more productive but also happier in both their personal and professional lives. So, embrace the spirit of summer, harness the power of engagement, and watch your workplace thrive amidst the warmth and brightness of the season. Together, let's make this summer a time of productivity, inspiration, and endless possibilities.