It’s that time of year again. All across the country, teachers are breathing a sigh of relief and getting ready to wind down for the summer holidays, whilst parents need to consider how they’ll balance childcare responsibilities with their working lives.
Over the last month there has also been disruption throughout the UK as the National Union of Teachers voted in favour of one-day strikes over funding.
There is no doubt, when children are off school, either due to organised breaks throughout the academic year, or because of other factors, it can have a big impact on businesses. As an employer, it pays to take a proactive approach. Here, we share our advice and guidance for managing associated challenges effectively.
Harness a more flexible approach
Giving your staff more flexibility can help to ensure that an appropriate balance is struck. Consider whether you could offer your team members the opportunity to work from home, or slightly alter their hours during the summer holidays.
When most people think of flexible working, they think of arrangements like the above, and it’s true that these can really help. Don’t be scared to get a little more creative though and think outside of the box. Many businesses have successfully offered term-time only contracts for employees who are balancing their careers with caring responsibilities.
Be prepared for an influx of holiday requests
At this time of year, many of us are tempted by the prospect of booking a last-minute getaway. We all like a bit of sun and sand, but when your staff are planning a mass exodus, the situation can turn into a major headache. Remember that giving priority to staff with children could be discriminatory.
If you feel like you’re struggling to manage holiday requests, it might be time to implement a more robust system. This can ensure that your processes are fair and equal, and that you’re fully prepared for the challenges that the summer period can bring.
Take the time to rethink your priorities
Many workplaces experience a bit of a lull during the summer months. Staff are away on holiday, they’re thinking about spending time with the kids, and you might find yourself slipping into the trap of letting the time just pass you by. Instead of going down this route, take the opportunity to get your leadership team together and focus on where you’re going.
What are your priorities for the second half of the year? What challenges do you need to overcome? What opportunities exist that you aren’t tapping into? A little planning can go a long way.
If the summer season is causing HR headaches in your business, seek out professional assistance. This is often exactly what you need to get things back on the right track, and stop small issues from escalating into something more serious. Contact us for a no-obligation chat.