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With afternoon showers and sunny weekends, it must be summertime. Sadly, the days of elementary school are gone and those in the workforce notice little difference in the summertime months. However, employers have the opportunity to energize its workforce by providing some easy, inexpensive ways to boost morale and help employees have some summer fun, courtesy of Hallmark Business Connections.


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Be flexible

With children out from school, many employees use the summer as a time to catch up on some needed R&R with family and friends. Recognize the hard work of your employees by offering some flexible work scheduling so staff can more easily plan that summer trip.


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Go casual

Summertime is often a time to loosen up, especially when dealing with heat and humidity around most of the country. One way to appreciate staff is to loosen the dress code. Not necessarily a permanent change — nor should it take effect if there are client meetings or other important events happening around the office. Forbes recommends trying the casual look for a day at a time, “the point is to do something nice for employees and have a little fun at the same time,” Hallmark says.


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Randomly recognize

Instead of recognizing after the fact, Hallmark suggests selecting an individual (either deliberately or at random) and actively finding a reason for recognition. “This creative approach encourages you to focus on the individual’s strengths and then observe when he or she applies those strengths. Plus, it adds a little extra incentive for the employee to keep up the good work.”


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Cater a lunch

Nobody can say no to free food, and can also be a good way to reward employees for their hard work. As noted in an Open Forum blog, ”Lunch with colleagues is fun, breaks up the routine, and keeps employees in the office. It’s an all-around win for anyone who likes to eat.”


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Stay cool

There will be some high-stress moments at any job, on any day which require composure and professionalism. Hallmark says a fun way to reward employees for keeping their cool — especially during the summer months — is to offer some treats like Popsicles or ice cream. “After all, people tend to smile when there is sugar involved.”


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Team spirit

There are many cases pointing to a link between positive moods and spending time outside. Therefore, find a way to get your team outside. Ideas might include coordinating summer cookouts or potlucks, but whatever the case, Hallmark says just to make sure employees know they’re being rewarded for the excellent work.


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Say thanks

An often overlooked simple, but powerful act, studies have shown “being grateful can improve well-being and physical health, strengthen social relationships, produce positive emotional states, and help us cope with stressful times in our lives.” Hallmark suggests going beyond just saying thanks, try giving out thank you cards to employees.


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