Holidays are essential for a healthy work-life balance. But after a well-deserved summer break, it can be difficult for many employees to get back fully into work mode. Managers play a crucial role in supporting their team through this transition. Swiss recruitment specialist Robert Walters shares 6 tried-and-tested strategies to get the team back on track quickly and efficiently after the summer break.
1. Schedule ‘welcome back’ conversations
Upon returning from leave, it is valuable to schedule short, personal conversations with your team members. Ask about their holidays and show appreciation for their time away from work. Use this moment to update them on important developments or projects that took place during their absence. Doing so, they will immediately feel engaged and up to date again.
2. Be flexible and patient
During the first days after their holidays, employees appreciate some flexibility. Offer options such as working from home or flexible working hours. This makes the transition smoother and prevents them from being immediately overwhelmed by the work routine, and allows them to build up their productivity gradually.
3. Focus on self-care and work-private balance
Remind your team of the importance of self-care and a good work-life balance. Encourage them to put their well-being first. Where possible, offer access to a wellbeing programme or other resources that can reduce stress and improve concentration.
By encouraging a culture of care and balance, you are investing in the long-term vitality of your team.
4. Keep the workload in the gaps
Help your team members prioritise their tasks. By looking together at priority tasks, you can prevent them from being overwhelmed by a full inbox or long to-do list. Clear communication about new tasks and projects is essential to avoid confusion and stress, and ensures they quickly regain control of their work.
5. Encourage team spirit
After a holiday, it is important to strengthen the team spirit. Encourage cooperation and organize team-building activities. A supportive atmosphere where team members help each other and share knowledge promotes smooth reintegration. This can reinvigorate motivation and group spirit, leading to better team performance.
6. Give appreciation and constructive feedback
Acknowledge your team's efforts, both before and after their holidays. Celebrating small successes and giving positive feedback motivates employees and gives them an energy boost. Constructive feedback helps them improve their performance after the holidays. By showing that you are involved in their personal and professional growth, you create a supportive work environment.
With these strategies, you will ensure that your team quickly feels at home in the workplace again, full of new energy and motivation.
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