Staff returning to work after a break may feel deflated and demotivated with the ‘post holiday blues’ and levels of enthusiasm and productivity can hit a low. So how do you motivate your staff after the summer holidays?
Introduce an employee benefits scheme
The flexible benefits landscape has changed for small businesses. For years, staff benefits were the domain of larger businesses able to offer varied perks and incentives. However, compulsory auto-enrolment has now forced many SMEs to consider how else they can reward their employees, rather than simply through remuneration.
Research shows that offering staff additional benefits can improve employee engagement, helps retain staff, boosts morale, and ultimately position your business ahead of the competition as a good employer. Check out our guidance on starting a scheme.
Discuss their plans for the next twelve months
This doesn’t have to be a formal appraisal meeting but could be a discussion that covers their aspirations for the year ahead, talk through any potential issues and set some goals and targets so they have something to work towards. Alternatively, why not conduct a staff survey to ask your team about their hopes for the next twelve months? It’s important to keep the upward and downward communication channels open, as an unmotivated team may consider looking elsewhere for jobs.
Organise a team event
A simple lunch, or coffee morning in the office can boost morale by demonstrating that your business doesn’t just entertain staff once a year at Christmas. At Bespoke HR we are holding our summer party in September so that no one misses out due to holidays and that we all have something to look forward to once the holidays are over!
Discuss training needs
Now is an ideal time to map out training and where it is needed most. This will help staff to shape their personal development for the coming 12 months too. Read our guide on how to start a training scheme within your SME. ‘Bite-sized’ lunch and learn sessions throughout September can be a great way to get staff motivated whilst not overwhelming them.
Look at the perks you can offer
Incentives don’t have to cost a lot, and there are perks that you can offer that won’t break the bank. These include staff awards or time off. Take a look at our guide to incentivising staff without money.
Focus on wellbeing
More important than ever, workplace wellbeing is an important element of HR and many businesses have introduced incentives in the office. Take a look at some of the resources we’ve found to help support staff wellbeing.
For support managing and motivating your team, please request your free 15 minute HR advice call here.