Keeping Your Team Motivated Through Season Changes

As the year progresses we all go through personal seasons. However, there’s no denying that we’re affected by the change of weather and ever-looming holidays/new year.

Autumn starts the countdown to the holiday season. It’s a pivotal time for everyone, some people get senioritis looking forward to the holidays and possible vacations, some get stressed at the thought or the sudden realization that the end of the year is rapidly heading toward us. At any rate, there is always a shift in energy and it’s prudent for business leaders to stay ahead of it.

1. Call a meeting to re-focus attention. Let’s be obvious about it, you can come right out and say “we’re here to stay on track,” and it never hurts to check in with everyone to see what peoples’ headspaces are like. Make it a little bit fun with coffee and pastries or a catered lunch, giving everyone a boost while you go over current projects and upcoming goals.

2. Create an incentive program for the autumn months all the way through the end of the year. There are lots of ways to get people to work hard, but giving them a sizeable prize to compete and put in extra effort for is by far one of the most effective. Make sure you’re able to make the incentive that’s worth the work!

3. Give praise and thanks. Remind your team that they are valuable and doing a good job, the benefit of praise is completely underrated. Remember to compliment hard work and reward goals that have been met, it boosts morale beyond belief!

4. Keep up the team bonding. From little things like bi-weekly office happy hour to team outings to workshops or conferences, it’s important to keep your crew working together seamlessly and amicably. Keep up the activities that promote working together and also having a good time!

5. Embrace the new seasons. Throw some decorations up, bring in seasonal coffee flavors or treats, keep a calendar of local events that might be fun for people to know about. It’s easier to just go with the flow and frankly, it’s a lot more fun for everyone. Not saying you have to turn the office into a haunted house or winter wonderland, just don’t resist what everyone is itching to embrace.