4 Tangible Ways to Keep Your Employees Happy This Summer

​Keeping everyone motivated to work during the summer can be tricky. It's warm outside and your employees might be feeling warm indoors too. The sun is calling to them, and they're daydreaming of going to the beach or pool, or going on vacation. So how can you keep everyone happy and make sure that they're still working during the summer? You can take a few steps to provide for your employees and ensure they don't mind working during the warmer months. Take a look at these ideas to help your employees have a better summer at work.

Give Them Vacation Time
Vacation time is important for employees. When they get time off, they come back feeling rested and ready to get back into their work. Summer is often the time when people want to take some time off, although you obviously don't want everyone to take their vacation at once. On the other hand, it makes sense for some businesses to simply shut down for a week or two in the summer, depending on what your business does. Some businesses also have employees who are reluctant to take their vacation. Make sure you encourage them to do so to ensure they get a break.

Ensure a Comfortable Workplace
No one wants to be at work, sweltering in the heat. If it's too hot when your employees come into work, it's hard for them to be at their best. They'll feel sluggish and find it difficult to focus. If you want to make it easier for them, provide a comfortable workplace to combat the heat. Have a 24 hour AC service on call just in case your air conditioning breaks down. Try to find a temperature that works for everyone. You want them to be cool but not too cold. Ensure fresh drinking water is available too so that everyone can stay hydrated.

Change the Dress Code
If your workplace has a strict dress code, it can cause problems in the summer. While it's important for employees to present a professional image if associating with customers and clients, not everyone has to be dressed in a very formal way. There are ways to allow more casual dress or even to have everyone look professional while still allowing them to keep cool. Consider rethinking your dress code and consulting with your employees to see if they have any suggestions on how to change it.

Plan Some Treats
Everyone likes to be treated to a surprise now and then. If you want to reward your employees for doing such a good job through the summer, think about how you could give them some extra perks. Have an ice cream truck visit the office at lunch or plan an after-work barbecue that everyone can enjoy. Let them know that you appreciate them and that you want them to be able to make the most of the summer, even while they're working.

Happy employees are more productive. When summer arrives, plan to treat your employees right if you want them to work hard.