5 Free Perks Employees Will Love This Summer

Summertime has arrived! Take a look at some of the easy perks you could provide to reward your hardworking employees:

1. Flexible Scheduling

Work/life balance can be especially tricky in the summer. The short window of summer months can leave your employees physically present but mentally checked out. To help your employees strike a balance, consider offering flexible scheduling. Employers that offer flexible scheduling in the summer often offer compressed four-day workweeks or half-day Fridays. Others let their employees set their own work hours within certain guidelines.

2. A Walking Club

Take advantage of the nice weather and establish a walking club. Walking regularly not only has great physical benefits—controls weight, elevates mood, lowers blood pressure, etc.—but it’s a great way to boost morale and build camaraderie among your employees. Establish walking routes near your workplace and encourage your employees to walk during their lunchtime or before and after work.

3. Casual Dress Code

Relaxing your dress code during the summer months is an easy summertime perk that your employees will love. Just be sure to set guidelines and communicate them to your employees. Clear policies will ensure that everyone is on the same page for what is—and what is not—appropriate apparel for your office.

4. Pets at Work

While your workplace might not be ready to go full-time with pets at the office, consider making it a one-day pets at work event. While not a very common perk—only 2.4% of employers currently allow pets at work according to an International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans survey—it is one that is sure to boost employee morale.

5. Ice Cream Breaks

OK, so this perk isn’t completely free, but it’s close! Choose a steamy summer day and surprise your employees with a 3:00 ice cream break. Purchase some frozen treats from your local grocery store and let your employees choose their favorites. It’s fun, easy and tasty!