Returning from holidays: the keys to a smooth transition and lasting motivation.
Your employees are back from their holidays, with sun-kissed skin, relaxed minds and recharged batteries! Boosted by their summer break, they are full of enthusiasm, motivation and energy. Yet, as soon as they return to work, they lose all these benefits so quickly.
Yet, as soon as they return to work, they lose all these benefits so quickly. But how can you help them maintain the benefits of their holidays?
1# Don’t overload your employees’ day
Of course, there is all the work that has piled up due to staff absences. But your employees’ return to work should be gradual. To maintain the benefits of their holidays, make sure you don’t put too much pressure on them during the first few days.
Your employees need to ease themselves back into work little by little. As a manager, make sure you provide a gradual increase in workload adapted to each person.
2# Create a positive atmosphere at work to maintain the benefits of the holidays
A good working atmosphere and a friendly environment are both conducive to well-being in the workplace in general. To help your employees retain the benefits of their summer holidays for as long as possible, create a positive working environment within your SME.
In a good-humoured atmosphere, encourage communication and interaction between everyone. Set an example by being positive and open towards others. Add a little humour and informality to your meetings too.
3# Encourage your employees to exercise
To maintain the benefits of the holidays, sport has demonstrated its advantages. A study published in 2015 by the Conseil en performance économique responsable showed that employee productivity gains improved by 6% to 9% and profitability by 4% to 14% thanks to physical activity.
If you cannot provide a fitness room, offer your employees discounts, trial classes or, why not, memberships. Also consider stress-relieving activities such as yoga.
4# Encourage your teams to get some sunshine
When everyone returns to work in September, the weather is still good. It is therefore important for your employees to continue getting plenty of vitamin D. It’s good for morale!
To encourage them to get some fresh air, set up tables outside for lunch breaks if you can. Remember to set an example too! Some meetings or training sessionscan also be held outside; this stimulates creativity.
5# Let your employees take naps at work
During their summer holidays, your employees probably enjoyed naps and lie-ins. The extra sleep they feel they have had has a very positive effect on their work. Therefore, consider allowing your employees to take a nap to maintain the benefits of their holidays.
Several studies have demonstrated its benefits, including a NASA study which showed that napping increases workplace productivity by 35%. Many companies are taking the plunge and moving beyond the stereotype still too often associated with this practice.
And you? What are your tips for maintaining the benefits of the holidays?
