Top Ten Tips for… Prioritising Workload During Summer

As summer approaches, organisations often experience shifts in capacity and workload distribution due to annual leave and changing routines. Being prepared means staying proactive and maintaining performance during peak times.  

Here are some of our top tips to get prepared ahead of the summer months… 

   1. Strengthen communication during absences  

Clear communication is crucial when teams are not all present at the same time. Make sure out of office messages are consistent and include return dates and alternative contacts.  

   2. Manage workload across teams 

Holiday periods can unintentionally lead to uneven workload distribution. Managers should regularly review who is covering additional tasks and ensure responsibilities are shared fairly.  

   3. Support wellbeing alongside productivity 

Summer is not just a logistical challenge, it’s also a wellbeing one. Encourage realistic expectations and recognise that performance may fluctuate during peak periods.  

   4. Review deadlines and adjust timelines 

Take time to assess project schedules, and where possible, adjust deadlines early rather than later when under pressure. Breaking larger pieces of work into smaller stages can help. 

   5. Keep shared workspaces updated 

With teams moving in and out of the office, visibility is essential. Ensure task boards, shared documents and project trackers are kept up to date so colleagues can quickly understand progress.  

   6. Avoid overloading pre or post-holiday weeks 

The weeks immediately before and after annual leave can become extremely busy. Build in breathing space so employees can prepare for time away and return without feeling overwhelmed by backlog or urgent tasks. 

   7. Encourage genuine disconnection during leave 

Time off is most effective when employees can fully switch off. Reinforce that there is no expectation to check emails or respond while on holiday, and support managers in modelling this behaviour.  

   8. Protect learning time even during peak times  

Development activity is often the first thing to be impacted during busy periods. Maintaining small amounts of learning helps long-term capability. Short sessions or peer knowledge sharing can keep development on track. 

   9. Introduce short wellbeing check ins 

Regular check-ins can help identify pressure points early. Even brief conversations between managers and teams can flag workload issues and reinforce a culture of care at a busy time. 

   10. Reflect on what works for future planning 

Summer can provide valuable insight into how systems and teams really work. Take note of what worked effectively and where challenges arose to strengthen planning for future peak leave.