Should More Workplaces Give More Time Off?

Flexible schedules and 'Summer Fridays' are incentives many employees want, but most Canadian employers seem to have missed the memo, according to a new OfficeTeam survey.

Roughly 46 per cent of respondents said they’re interested in flex scheduling, but only 27 per cent of Canadian human resources managers reported their organization offers them at this time of year.

“Companies can leverage summer perks to boost morale,” said a district president for OfficeTeam, Koula Vasilopoulos.

“These incentives allow employees to relax, recharge and enjoy the season while still meeting project deadlines.”

Examples include Fridays off, or ending the work week between noon and 2 p.m. on Fridays.

One in five HR managers said workers are less productive during summer, while 69 per cent said there’s no change in performance.

Unexpected absences (28 per cent) and being overly distracted or checked out at work (20 per cent) were identified as the most common negative employee behaviours this time of year, ahead of dressing too casually (18 per cent), not planning well for vacations (17 per cent), and sneaking in late or leaving early (14 per cent).

Vasilopoulos suggests finding what works for your team by regularly seeking feedback.

“Providing attractive benefits not only keeps current staff motivated, but can also set your organization apart for potential candidates,” said Vasilopoulos.

In addition to time off, 10 percent of respondents liked the idea of a relaxed dress code, while 8 per cent found activities, such as a company picnic or potluck, appealing.