7 Work World

7 Work WorldIn Defense of Summer Fridays in a 24/7 Work WorldShare the love this summer by incorporating one of the hottest incentives into your business plan.I like to believe Im as hard-working as the next guy or girl. Being full time at WeWork, deputy editor of OhThePeopleYouMeet.com and holding a Travel+SocialGood board position is no cakewalk. Honestly, its a lot to juggle most days. But theres something about the summer that Ill always hold near and dear.Its not just the tropical drinks and endless sunshine that attract us to summer, but the work incentives that coincide with the thermisch season. By the end of the week, Im ready for a Summer Friday. And I will always be a proponent- not just because I grew up five steps away from the beach, but for what it adds to a companys morale.Summer Fridays come in different forms at different companies. Ive personally had half days offered throughout the summer and full days to use at my convenience between Memorial Day and Labor Day. R egardless of the execution, Summer Fridays should be on your companys calendar for two simple reasonsWere 24/7 anywaySigning off completely isnt realistic Saturday and Sunday, so why would it be on Friday? Just because were not in the office doesnt mean were unreachable. Actually its quite the opposite, with the unspoken understanding that emails will be checked, phone calls answered and text messages responded to regardless of the day of the week. So why not allow your employees to hit the beach early on Fridays if theyve completed their work for the week?Its a small gesture of appreciation with a big returnCompanies that offer little perks- like dinner on late Monday nights or free beer in the kitchen (both of which I enjoy at WeWork )- have happier employees. Were motivated to put in the extra hours and effort when we work in a positive environment. Letting your team leave early on Fridays goes a long way in making your employees feel appreciated.Incorporating Summer Fridays in to your business model will have your employees feeling their best on Monday morning. The better your employees feel, the better they will perform. Extra serotonin is good for everybody from interns to CEOs. Just dont forget to add sunscreen