Keep your team motivated: Tips to fight the mid-year slump

Navigating burnout in the workplace

The mid-year slump often results from several factors. According to a 2024 Deloitte study, over 70% of Gen Z and 63% of millennials in the Philippines are burnt out due to their workload. Building a thriving workplace means more than just driving output; it means making sure employees feel seen, valued, and supported, especially when their motivation dips. Left unaddressed, it can lead to disengagement, micro-retirement, or even revenge quitting. This is why addressing these root causes early is key to maintaining a healthy and productive workforce.

Short-term solutions

1. Regular employee feedback and check-ins

   Regular, honest conversations between managers and employees help uncover early signs of burn out. Providing timely feedback makes employees feel motivated. Encouraging the use of leave days and setting clear boundaries on after-hours communication also gives employees space to rest and recharge. These small but meaningful actions build a culture where well-being is nurtured.

2. Wellness programs

   Mental health support is essential in today’s workplace. Offering wellness activities, like mindfulness sessions, team volunteering, or social events, helps employees build connections and allows them to be part of something bigger. When employees feel they belong, stress levels drop, and motivation improves.

3. Allowances and practical perks

   Providing practical support can ease daily stresses. Pluxee Gifts, for example, can help enable work-life joy amongst employees. Meal and rice allowances through Pluxee Gift credits help ease financial pressures. Transportation support via Grab or Angkas within the Pluxee app can also make commuting easier. Offering clothing or beauty allowances with Pluxee Gift codes tailored to specific merchants adds a personal touch. These perks show your employees that you care about their well-being beyond their work tasks.

Long-term solutions

1. Policy review and alignment

   Mid-year is an ideal time to revisit company policies and check if they still meet your workforce’s needs. This includes benefits, career development, and work-life balance programs. Employees want to see your organization not only talk about support but take real action. Updating policies to fit current realities builds trust and shows commitment.

2. Goal setting and transparent career paths

   Clear communication about company goals gives employees a sense of purpose. Linking individual efforts to bigger company goals helps employees feel their work matters. Setting measurable targets and providing clear growth opportunities keeps motivation high and ensures that career development is more than just a promise. Rather, it becomes an ongoing part of your company culture.

3. Rewards and recognition programs

   Recognition is key to keeping motivation steady throughout the year. Our Rewards and Recognition platform makes it easy to celebrate both big achievements and everyday wins, helping employees feel consistently valued. Pairing this with tools like Vantage Fit, which allows employees to track their health and fitness goals and supports overall well-being. Investing in recognition programs creates a positive cycle of engagement, further improving retention.

The value of putting employees first

Putting value on your employees is more than words spoken. It means recognizing their contributions, supporting their well-being, and investing in their growth. When employees feel truly appreciated, they become more engaged. This leads to better performance, lower turnover, and a stronger workplace culture.

Supporting your team’s work-life balance shows that you care about them as people, not just workers. Facing the mid-year slump with this mindset can turn challenges into an opportunity to build lasting value for your workforce and your business.

Let’s work together to overcome the mid-year slump.