As the sunny days of summer arrive here in New England, it’s time for CEOs to not only embrace the season but also to ensure both business continuity and personal rejuvenation. Here are seven strategic actions to set yourself and your company up for success during this vibrant time of year.

1. Celebrate and Support Employee Vacation Plans

Employees appreciate knowing their leaders care about their well-being and career. Many will take summer holidays, and it’s vital to acknowledge and celebrate their plans. Ask about their trips and express genuine excitement for their adventures. While their absence may be challenging, prioritizing employee health and happiness is paramount. When they return, they’ll be refreshed and more productive, ready to contribute with renewed energy.

2. Implement Robust “Out of Office” Protocols

Ensure comprehensive out-of-office (OOO) protocols are in place. These protocols should outline clear guidelines for internal and external stakeholders, detailing how responsibilities will be delegated during an employee’s absence. Essential steps include setting up email auto-replies and calendar blocking. Emphasize the importance of advance planning to prevent any disruption in business operations.

3. Prepare for Your Strategic Planning Offsite

If you haven’t started it already, now is the time to plan for your C-suite strategic planning offsite. This includes rethinking your overall leadership team strategy and who should attend, clearly articulating your planning objectives, developing pre-work for attendees, designing the agenda, and most importantly, working through your CEO vision and presentation. And you may want to  consider a facilitator with a proven methodology for your session.

4. Develop a Summer Networking Strategy

Summer offers a perfect opportunity for informal networking. Schedule coffee or drink meetings with partners, recruits, key customers, or mentors. Create a short list of individuals to connect with and choose inviting venues to facilitate meaningful conversations.

5. Commit to Taking a Break

Amid increasing demands, the need to disconnect is more critical and widely accepted than ever. Plan a break, whether it’s alone, with friends, family, or your significant other. The duration can vary from a few days to several weeks. This time off will benefit your mental health and set a positive example for your team. Challenge yourself to see how your leadership team manages in your absence, testing the effectiveness of your delegation and leadership.

6. Spend Time in Nature

Incorporating nature into your summer routine can have profound benefits for your mental and physical health. Whether it’s hiking, biking, or simply walking in a park, spending time outdoors can reduce stress, boost creativity, and enhance overall well-being. Encourage your team to also take advantage of natural surroundings to recharge and gain fresh perspectives.

7. Review and Refresh Business Goals

Summer is an excellent time to review your business goals and make any necessary adjustments. Reflect on the progress made during the first half of the year and identify areas that need improvement. Set clear, actionable objectives for the remainder of the year.

8. Encourage Learning and Development

Promote a culture of continuous learning by encouraging your team to take advantage of the quieter summer months to develop new skills. Whether it’s through online courses, workshops, or conferences, investing in your team’s professional growth will pay dividends in the long run.

These eight actions will help ensure a productive and fulfilling summer for both you and your organization. Embrace the season and enjoy all the opportunities it brings!

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