While some Australian businesses may be concerned about a slump in productivity over the summer months, new independent research commissioned by recruitment firm Robert Half has found Australian workers seem to be in fact more productive during summer months.
According to the research, almost nine in 10 (89 per cent) Australian managers predict that employee productivity will either stay the same or rise during the summer months – an indication that warmer weather may in fact be a prime motivator within the workplace.
Geographically, New South Wales’ optimal beaches are not distracting workers as seven in 10 (70 per cent) managers in New South Wales believe their staff are more productive during summer months. This is followed by Western Australia (64 per cent) and Queensland (52 per cent). Victoria however stands at the bottom of the list with just less than half (45 per cent) saying their staff will be more productive during the warmer weather months.
This is a positive step up from previous Robert Half findings in 2015 – of those surveyed who were concerned about potential negative impacts on their business during summer, 21 per cent specifically referred to a loss of productivity due to employees taking annual leave.
Nicole Gorton, Director of Robert Half Australia said, “While blue skies and beach-perfect weather might seem like distractions in the office, Australian managers believe summer months are no barrier to employee productivity in the office. With end-of-year approaching, summer months can be a good time to work on outstanding projects and tasks, as well as start working on the preparations for the year ahead.
“The summer months are also an optimal time for employees to take some well-deserved annual leave and recharge the batteries. A non-stressed and happy workforce that comes back to the office refreshed after a holiday tends to be more productive and engaged, making holidays beneficial to long-term business performance as well,” Ms Gorton added.
“Managers who are concerned about any potential loss of productivity over the summer months due employees taking annual leave also have the option to bring in temporary workers to maintain business operations, continue to meet deadlines and complete projects, without increasing permanent headcount.”
