5 ways to boost employee engagement over the summer months—inspired by the 2024 Olympic Games.

Ah, summer. That time of year when the sun shines brighter, the days are longer, and outdoor activities abound. If it feels like you’re competing for employees’ attention on those picture-perfect days, that’s because you are. According to Grasshopper: 

 

Employee attendance and productivity drop up to 19% during the summer.

 

Don’t let the sun melt away your team’s motivation. Instead, take inspiration from the world’s greatest athletes. Just as Olympians stay focused and driven, you can help your employees bring their “A” game all summer long. Here are five Olympic-inspired methods for improving employee engagement and maintaining employee productivity during summer.

1. Go for the gold with team activities.

Organize fun, outdoor team-building events like scavenger hunts, picnics, and hiking—at places your employees would want to go on a day off. And keep your internal comms lighthearted. From highlighting team activities to spotlighting your people, employee-focused content is a great way to drive engagement. If you really want to get people talking, invite a little friendly competition in the form of a recipe contest. (Best barbecue side dish wins!)

2. Score high marks in work-life balance.

Combat the typical summer slump by offering summer benefits—which research shows can actually boost productivity. Summer Fridays (which typically begin Memorial Day weekend and end after Labor Day) allow employees to take the entire day off, or leave a few hours early in the afternoon. A Monster.com poll revealed that:

 

97% of workers who receive summer benefits say they don’t negatively impact their productivity, and 66% claim these benefits make them more productive.

3. Dive into learning opportunities.

The summer months are great for investing in professional development. We recommend offering webinars and online courses to help upskill employees and keep them engaged. Don’t think they want help with honing their skills? Think again. According to a 2022 report by the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM):

 

76% of employees are more likely to stay with a company that offers continuous training and development.

4. Make a splash with recognition programs.

Take time to celebrate your employees’ hard work by implementing a recognition program. “Most Valuable Team Player” has more impact than a pat on the back. When employees feel truly appreciated, it motivates them to keep going and inspires other team members along the way.

5. Think like a champion with strategic planning and feedback.

Longer days are perfect for reevaluating company goals—with the help of your employees. Encourage them to contribute feedback and fresh ideas to strengthen your strategy. You can also use surveys to discover what drives your employees. Oddly enough, summer is the best time to deploy employee engagement surveys. A 2022 Forbes article explains:

 

As urgent operational crises often become less frequent [during summer], you get a more stable, accurate glimpse into employees’ motivations.

There you have it. Our top tactics for maintaining employee productivity during summer, inspired by the Olympic spirit. Put those to work and your employees will bring their “A” game—even when the beach is calling their name.

Need help leveling-up employee engagement and productivity? With 37+ years of experience in employee engagement and strategic execution, JK is your partner. Let’s talk.