From alternative child care options to flexibility to guilt-free time off, benefits can help employees navigate — and enjoy — the summer months.
"We believe people do their best work when they're given the flexibility to actually enjoy life, especially during the summer," says Chloe Hellmer, director of brand experience at Jobot, an AI-based platform that helps recruiters find job placements for candidates.
During the summer months, Jobot employees are offered schedules that include flexible work locations, long weekends and opportunities for outdoor breaks during the workday.
"We've built intentional benefits into our culture that support balance, wellness, and fun all year long, but are especially appreciated when the sun is out and routines shift," Hellmer says.
Read more:
Smart things to consider
Amy Broad, assistant general counsel and human resources consultant with professional HR outsourcing solutions provider Engage PEO, echoes the value of intentionality when putting benefit plans together. Long-lasting pros of summer-specific offerings include improved work-life balance, increased loyalty, enhanced morale and attracting talent, but there are important things to think about before putting them in place, she says.
"Summer benefits can significantly boost employee satisfaction and productivity, but they require careful planning to ensure fairness, coverage, and cost-effectiveness," says Broad. "This means that businesses should establish clear policies to ensure productivity isn't negatively affected. It's also key to communicate the summer policy effectively among employees to ensure that expectations are understood."
With this advice in mind, leaders can move ahead with benefits and policies they believe will have a positive impact on their workforce. Below, some share the offerings they've already put in place.
