Avoiding the summer slump

Life should not be a beach for employees looking to get ahead in 2009, says one of Australia’s leading recruitment firms.

With 2009 looking like it will be a demanding time for almost every business, LINK Recruitment is advising employees working the summer months to make the time count and set themselves up for the year ahead.

“While most of us are limited in the normal work we can do, there are plenty of ways for employees to make sure they hit the ground running,” claims Ben Cass, General Manager of LINK Recruitment’s Melbourne office.

“The first quarter is usually a more relaxed time of year and that can be both good and bad,” says Cass.

January can be a helpful time to de-stress and shake off some of the anxieties from the busy Christmas period, but some employees treat the period as an extension of the holidays and waste valuable time, especially if workloads are light.

Cass says the period is especially important for those in leadership roles, as they really drive the mentality of their teams.

“It’s a great time to identify skill gaps and get the team learning and working together, “ he says.

Increasing employee motivation levels is extremely important, but managers should tread carefully in an uncertain economy.

“Focusing on opportunities and achievements as opposed to the prospect of job losses is the way to go. Employees pick up on their leader’s confidence so it’s important to remain positive.

“On an individual level, there has never been a better time for workers to demonstrate their worth. The smart employee will use the time while the boss is away to think laterally and identify those areas where they can make a difference.

“Regardless of where they are in the company, it is vital that all employees use the holiday period as a springboard for the coming year. It will be tempting to take it easy but the benefits of being both smart and productive will become apparent very quickly.”

LINK Recruitment’s top tips for productivity over the summer period:
1.    Close ranks: if your work station/work area is empty with people away on holidays, move desks temporarily to be around others who can motivate you.
2.    Open cold cases and mend fences: resurrect any 'parked or paused' projects and invite colleagues to join the project team. Refresh your professional networks and reconnect with industry peers and colleagues.
3.    Get educated: take the time to brush up on thought leadership in your role/industry and get ahead of the pack. Renew your professional knowledge – subscribe to free online newsletters and read any industry white papers, innovations and competitor information.
4.    Take small steps: set short-term goals to remain productive and motivated.
5.    Enjoy the sunshine: set up off-site client meetings – you’ll be surprised what can be achieved in less formal surroundings.