Returning to work after a vacation can be challenging for employees, but it also presents a “perfect opportunity to re-establish the rhythm of businesses, renew team energy, and chart new, stronger, and more conscious plans,” according to the human resources company Clan.
“September has arrived, bringing with it the inevitable return to busier days. In a business world that demands speed, vision, and increasingly humanized people management, the way leadership handles the post-vacation period is crucial for ensuring that employees return motivated and ready for the company’s future success,” states a communiqué accessed by Noticias ao Minuto.
In this context, Clan offers five suggestions aimed at helping company leaders enhance and transform the post-vacation return. Learn more:
- Evaluations and alignment of future plans – “In preparation for the final quarter, it is important for leadership to conduct a strategic review with their teams regarding the past few months of work. This allows for the use of the rentrée period to reflect on areas that didn’t go as well and could be improved by the end of the year, as well as to celebrate achievements, keeping teams focused and aware of goals for the New Year”;
- Task organization – “Post-vacation, it’s common to find inboxes and team chats filled with emails and messages that need sorting and organizing. As a leader, take an active role in determining your team’s priorities, providing clear directions on what can be archived and what needs immediate attention. Additionally, ensure that all developments, changes, and decisions made during the vacations of some team members are communicated clearly and transparently, allowing for their quick and confident reintegration”;
- Stimulating innovation and creativity – “Whether through a city visited, a meal enjoyed, or a book read, returning from vacation brings refreshed minds and new perspectives. This is the ideal moment to harness that energy, encouraging teams to look at ongoing projects with renewed and creative perspectives. Use this period to foster brainstorming sessions to discuss and explore new ideas, facilitating a smoother return to daily responsibilities”;
- Strengthening team cohesion – “With energized individuals, returning from vacation also offers an opportunity to strengthen team spirit. It is essential to create moments that reinforce bonds among workers, fostering a more positive work environment. Why not organize a rentrée lunch with your entire team, outside the office, to share the best vacation moments and align future priorities?”;
- Promoting well-being and flexibility – “For some professionals, the return post-rest period can be challenging. Leadership should be mindful of team well-being, promoting an environment that allows a stress-free return. Taking advantage of the still long and warm September days, consider offering more flexible schedules and hybrid work options in the first few days or weeks, boosting the motivation of those working with you”.
