The Great British summer time can be unpredictable, but our early summer heat wave has led to questions around summer dress codes and working temperatures, with the majority of UK professionals (82%) agreeing that businesses should offer a more relaxed dress code over the hotter months. That’s according to CV-Library, the UK’s leading independent job board.
The survey, which asked 1,000 workers about seasonal perks in their workplace, found that less than half (42.4%) are allowed to adapt their wardrobe over the summer, with only one in five (19.3%) professionals stating that they receive summer perks such as more relaxed dress. That’s despite nearly two thirds (63.4%) believing that all businesses should offer these as standard.
When asked what they currently receive, respondents cited the following:
- Leaving early on a Friday to enjoy the sun - 56.9%
- Allowed to wear what we want – 32.3%
- Summer social activities e.g drinks after work – 31%
- Free ice creams and chilled drinks - 23.7%
- Being able to work outside – 14.2%
Lee Biggins, founder and managing director of CV-Library, comments: “Britain’s summer months can be a real struggle whatever level you’re working at. It’s hot one minute, raining the next, and all staff really want to be doing is jetting off somewhere exotic. It’s no surprise then that our data found that many UK professionals are keen to receive seasonal perks, yet only a small percentage are. Now could be a great time to consider the extra perks that you can put in place to help keep workers motivated.”
Furthermore, the study revealed that despite the majority (87%) enjoying air-con over the warmer months, nearly one in five (17%) offices go without it. This, along with the usual culprits (shorter working hours, ice creams, cold drinks etc.), all made the list of the most desirable summer perks.
However, respondents were also asked to share what they’d most like to receive, if they could have any summer perk possible. CV-Library has picked some of the top answers:
- Ben from Kent: Being able to wear Hawaiian shirts on Fridays
- Lucy from Bristol: Lunch time siestas
- April from Staines: Company hog roasts or barbecues every other week
- Janet from Barnsley: Paddling pools at the office
- Spencer from Winchester: Performance based hours – get the job done, then go have fun
- Dave from Swansea: Free beer and mojitos provided throughout the day
- Theresa from Clapham: Team holidays and outdoor team building activities, such as music festivals
- Paul from Sutton: Time out during the day to watch sporting events
- Sally from Leeds: An all-expenses paid holiday – on the company of course!
- Matthew from Hull: Showers provided to use whenever we need during a hot day
Biggins concludes: “While it may not be feasible to give every team member an all-expenses paid holiday or provide free beer all day, there are some basic and inexpensive perks you can offer to keep staff from feeling the heat. Air-con is a great way to keep the office cool and providing chilled refreshments can really help staff when the higher temperatures hit.
“Remember, these perks can also be a great way to attract talented new recruits as well as improve current staff retention rates. Whatever you choose, be sure to offer perks that reflect your company culture, to ensure you keep staff happy and cool during the summer months!”
