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As we return from well-deserved vacations, it’s natural for teams to experience a mix of relaxation and the challenge of getting back into the swing of work. This period offers a unique opportunity to focus on reconnecting and reinforcing the qualities that make our team high-performing. By fostering a safe and welcoming environment, we can ease the transition and set the stage for continued success. In this article you will find best tips for high performing teams after the summer.
Let's start with slim yet important theoretical view:
1. Clear Goals and Roles: Setting a Positive Tone
After time away, clarity is key. As we regroup, it’s essential to revisit our goals and ensure everyone understands their roles. This helps align our efforts and gives everyone a sense of purpose as we dive back into work. When everyone knows where we’re headed, it’s easier to re-engage and contribute effectively.
2. Open Communication: Prioritizing Connection
Returning from vacation is the perfect time to renew our commitment to open communication. Let’s make sure every voice is heard and valued. Encourage team members to share their thoughts, ideas, and any concerns they might have. A transparent dialogue helps rebuild the rhythm of collaboration and makes everyone feel included.
3. Trust and Accountability: Rebuilding Together
Trust is the bedrock of our team’s success, and it’s something we can strengthen as we reconnect. By holding ourselves and each other accountable, we reinforce the trust that enables us to work together smoothly. Let’s commit to following through on our promises and supporting one another as we get back into the groove.
4. Continuous Learning: Embracing a Fresh Perspective
Vacations often bring fresh perspectives, and now is a great time to channel that energy into continuous learning. Encourage team members to share any new insights or ideas they’ve gained during their time away. By fostering a culture of learning, we keep our team agile and ready to tackle new challenges with renewed vigor.
5. Diversity and Inclusion: Welcoming Every Voice
As we reconnect, let’s remember the importance of diversity and inclusion in our team. Each team member brings unique experiences and perspectives that enrich our collective creativity. By embracing and leveraging these differences, we can foster an environment where everyone feels safe, valued, and motivated to contribute their best.
Creating a Compassionate Reconnection
Returning to work after a break can be challenging, but it also presents an opportunity to reconnect with compassion. By focusing on the qualities that define a high-performing team—clear goals, open communication, trust, continuous learning, and inclusion—we can create a welcoming atmosphere that makes the transition smoother for everyone.
Time for practice - Let me share with you the quick fix tips on how you can create the healthy workplace and naturally engage back with your team:
Monday: quick - week opening meeting welcoming people with inspirational story and inviting them to share their holiday story. Finish the meeting with people: key points of focus for the coming week. Ensure is max 5, otherwise the attention can be distracted.
Wednesday: share with your team an email with a knowledge note. It might be something you have learned, or simply do a quick research, and incorporate it into a nice and motivating note. End with "thank you and keep up with great work"
Friday: quick - week closing meeting, where you will ask how everyone are doing. Then invite the first one to share the feedback on key points highlighted on Monday. Do not do comments until everyone is ready. Your closure speech try start with: amazing work, I am happy to hear all feedback. Considering given progress, I advice to focus on:.... and provide a pragmatic and constructive feedback for the points you think must be improved. No need here to address anyone mistakes or not meeting expectations. If you have questions, ask them and make sure they are mature not emotional. Encouraging not judgmental. It is Friday and let people enjoy with a freedom in mind and heart their free time.
Repeat this exercise for 3 months and see what are the results of your real and active engagement with your team. Keeping a journal can be a good idea to measure your own progress as above is indirect team mentoring.
Let’s Make This a Positive Return
As we settle back in, let’s commit to supporting one another and strengthening our team dynamics. Whether it’s through a quick check-in, a collaborative meeting, or simply sharing our experiences, every effort counts in making our work environment more positive and inclusive. Together, we can continue to build a high-performing team that not only meets its goals but also thrives in a culture of respect, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Welcome back, and let’s make this a great season of growth and achievement! And before you go back to your life, I wonder if you are feeling engaged with your work now, after the return from holiday. Leave your answer below in this quick poll and you are more than welcome to share your experience in the comments section...
Are you engaged with your work after the summer time?
Yes, I am happy and engaged back with my work duties
No, I don't have clear directions. I do what I am told to do
I forgot I had holiday. Work gives pressure
I work to pay my bills
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Ready to reconnect and take your team to new heights? Let’s get started today!
If you're looking to foster a stronger, more connected team as we settle back into our work routines, I’d love to chat about how we can make that happen together. Let’s explore how we can create an environment where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and ready to contribute their best. Feel free to check out the QuerySwift consultancy service here for more details.
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