Employees value flexible work schedules and the ability to leave early on Fridays above other benefits during the summer months, according to a report.
More than 40 percent indicated flexible work was their top choice, compared to almost 30 percent who selected early Friday departures. The third-most popular choice was events such as a company picnic or potluck, which only 11 percent picked. A few indicated they were most pleased to have a more relaxed dress code. Researchers surveyed about 450 working adults employed in an office environment.
They also surveyed more than 500 HR managers at various organizations, each with at least 20 people. About 75 percent offer flexible schedules in the summer and more than 60 percent said they allow workers to leave early on Fridays, suggesting that many employers may be tuned in to their workers' summer preferences. Almost 60 percent have a more relaxed dress code in place during the summer, and 28 percent offer a potluck, picnic or similar activity.
Implementing policies
Only 6 percent indicated their organizations offers no benefits of these types to employees during the summer. Those companies may be ignoring a valuable opportunity to improve morale and talent retention, researchers said. These sorts of seasonal employee benefits may allow firms to take advantage of summer conditions to help employees remain productive and happy.
At the same time, organizations should be prepared for the challenges of implementing new policies. If they intend to offer these benefits and opportunities for the first time, companies should make certain the rules and conditions associated with them are clear. Otherwise, confusion may result and productivity could be adversely affected.
