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As temperatures soar over the summer, employment expert ELAS has some advice about how to bolster staff productivity in the workplace, while discouraging high levels of absence.
And with the school holidays approaching, ELAS has warned bosses to remain vigilant or risk losing valuable man hours throughout July and August.
ELAS head of consultancy, Peter Mooney, says: The most important thing employers can do is make the work place as comfortable and pleasant as possible for staff members.
Ways in which to do so include relaxing strict dress codes, installing air conditioning if you dont already have it and allowing for regular drinks breaks.
We all know its hard to keep motivated when the weather outside is so lovely but distracted workers are the last thing an office needs, especially when the summer months are traditionally a quieter time for businesses.
To help businesses prepare for any potential loss of output, ELAS has put together a checklist for employers:
1. It is essential that businesses are clear with staff about the rules for having time off. Requests for annual leave should be decided on a first come, first served basis. Be sure to make staff aware of minimum notice periods for annual leave requests.
2. Consider looking at flexible working options. Allowing staff to work from home, or to work different hours, will go towards helping meet usual levels of productivity.
3. Reiterate your stance on absenteeism. Staff who are turned down for time off often have a knack of being ill when the requested day arrives. Make sure that staff members know the consequences of falsely taking sick leave.
