We are provided with four seasons in the Pacific Northwest, but often times it is the cold, rainy winter, that seems to linger for the longest. The rain and grey skies tend to bring spirits down, which can decrease motivation in even the most dedicated and hard working employee. Curling up at home often sounds so much more appealing than making the wet, dreary drive to work.
Often referred to as the “winter blues,” Seasonal Affective Disorder affects millions of Americans, and areas with harsher winters see the most dramatic rates, according to the NY Times. With lowered rates of activity and significantly less sunlight, winter is often when mood and energy level drops and employees seem to have a harder time getting work done.
Employers may find themselves looking for ways to motivate their employees to increase their productivity during the winter months, especially if their busy season is during the holidays. A question that is often asked is: “How can employers keep their employees working hard and feeling good, when they have no control over the weather?”
Here are a few methods that may provide your employees with motivation during the winter months:
- Provide Opportunity for Movement/Activity – Research shows that exercise can increase productivity. Employers should think of creative ways to get their employees up and moving. Consider ideas like bringing in fitness instructors during the lunch hour, taking group fitness classes to boost employee engagement and morale, or consider offering gym memberships at reduced rates to employees.
- Create Contests to Boost Productivity – Healthy competition can be a jump-start into anyone’s week. Monitoring the results and providing a reward at the end of a contest such as extra paid time off, a pizza party, or a fun group outing are key to healthy competition in the workplace.
- Peer Recognition – Create a system that allows peers to recognize the strengths and contributions of their co-workers. Allow employees to give praise to their peers in front of large groups of coworkers. Offer bonus awards that can be given by employees to employees. This fosters a sense of ownership and creates a work environment where employees feel empowered and valued.
Employers should make sure that these motivational plans are tailored to their employees and ensure that they fit the culture of your company. Please consult with your Xenium HR Business Partner if you would like more information on motivating your workforce.