As we approach the April bank holiday, with another on the horizon in May, let’s take a look at the impact bank holidays can have on worker productivity and what we can do to boost colleague engagement over holiday periods.

Bank holidays are a time-honoured tradition, providing workers with a much-needed break from the daily grind. But while these holidays are welcomed by employees, they can also have a significant impact on worker productivity. Employers must consider how to keep their workforce engaged during bank holidays to ensure that productivity remains high.

What’s the Impact?

Bank holidays can have a significant impact on worker productivity, both in the days leading up to and immediately following the holiday, this can be particularly true for temporary high-volume workforces within the industrial and contact centre sectors. As employees look forward to the long weekend, their attention may be diverted from work-related tasks, resulting in decreased productivity.

Bank holidays can also disrupt the usual work rhythm and routine of employees, leading to a loss of momentum and difficulty getting back into the groove. Workers may also experience difficulty coordinating with clients or coworkers who may be taking the day off, delaying important projects.

How Employers Can Keep Their Workforce Engaged?

To ensure that their workforce remains productive during bank holidays, employers should take steps to keep employees engaged. One approach is to offer flexible work arrangements, such as allowing employees to work from home (where possible) or providing an adjusted schedule or shift pattern for the week of the holiday. This can help employees better manage their workload and achieve a better work-life balance.

Employers can also promote engagement by providing fun and engaging activities during the workday leading up to the holiday. For example, they can organise a themed team-building event, have a company-wide lunch, or hold a charity fundraiser.

Communication is key to keeping employees engaged during bank holidays. Employers should communicate clearly and frequently about work expectations, deadlines, and schedules leading up to the holiday. They should also make it clear what the process will be for urgent issues that may arise during the holiday.

Another approach is to offer incentives for productivity, such as bonuses or extra time off for completing projects on time or meeting other performance metrics. These incentives can motivate employees to remain productive even when they might otherwise be distracted by the upcoming holiday.

Finally, employers can encourage their employees to take the bank holiday as an opportunity to rest and recharge, promoting the benefits of relaxation and self-care. By doing so, they can help their workers come back to work refreshed, re-energised, and ready to tackle the tasks ahead.

So, to wrap up…

Bank holidays can have a significant impact on worker productivity, but employers can take steps to keep their workforce engaged during these times. By offering flexible work arrangements, promoting communication and engagement, and providing incentives, employers can help ensure that their workers remain productive and motivated, both leading up to and immediately following the holiday. Ultimately, this can benefit both employees and employers, creating a healthier and more productive workplace.

Want to work with a strategic recruitment partner to find out how we boost your workforce productivity and promote colleague engagement during holiday periods? Get in touch, I’d love to speak to you about the strategies we put in place to support our clients and workers.