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Managing Employee Motivation as We Transition from Summer to Autumn

  • info3686918
  • Sep 23
  • 3 min read

A group of employees having a team meeting

Holidays are over, workloads pick back up, and the coming months of dark mornings and leaving the office after sunset can affect motivation and mood.


Not to mention, parents are back on the school run—often starting their day with what some might call organised chaos! Leaving summer behind and heading toward the cold can be daunting. For some, even getting out of bed becomes harder, and motivation can really plummet.


But there’s another side to autumn. Think back to that September “back to school” feeling—returning refreshed after the summer, ready to start a new chapter. Even for those without children, it’s a familiar rhythm and can be the perfect time to flip a natural slump into a season of new beginnings and professional growth.


And the good news? These days, the 1st of September doesn’t mean an oversized shirt and a blazer you’re hoping to grow into by January!

Why Now?


If you’re not convinced by that familiar “September reset” rhythm, here’s some extra evidence for why it’s so important to focus on wellbeing at this time of year.


Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is often described as “winter depression.” According to the NHS, it’s thought to be linked to reduced sunlight exposure, which affects the body’s natural rhythms and can lead to changes in mood, energy levels, and even sleep patterns (NHS).


Even if employees don’t experience SAD, shorter daylight hours can still have an impact. Reduced sunlight can affect everyone’s motivation, productivity, and overall sense of wellbeing. For employers, this means acknowledging the seasonal shift isn’t just about being supportive—it’s about taking proactive steps to keep teams energised and engaged.


So, let's get to it - How can leaders and teams help maintain motivation of their employees throughout this seasonal shift?


  1. Acknowledge it!

It’s completely normal for employees to feel a slump during this time. By leaders simply acknowledging this, you show trust, empathy, and acceptance of the “human” side of work. That recognition can make a huge difference.


  1. Be flexibile where possible

Do you offer hybrid working, wellbeing days, or flexible start times? Could you? Even small adjustments can help employees balance personal needs with workplace performance.


  1. Emphasis on Wellbeing

If flexibility isn’t an option, consider what you can do inside the workplace. Encourage employees to take breaks—and provide inviting spaces to do so. A one-off team breakfast could brighten someone’s day and set a positive tone for the season.


  1. Renewed Focus and Growth

Now summer is out of the way, autumn is a great time for a check-in—whether team-wide or one-to-one. Reviewing goals, spotting potential challenges early, and simply asking how people are doing can go a long way.


It’s also the perfect moment to invest in growth. Employees feel more motivated when they see opportunities ahead. Consider making autumn the launchpad for new training, coaching, or leadership development programmes.


(Hmmm—if only there was a company out there that could help with training, coaching, and leadership development programmes for your staff members… 😉)

  1. Reconnect the Team!


After a summer of holidays, staggered schedules, and reduced staffing, some employees can return feeling out of sync with their colleagues. Autumn is the perfect time to re-strengthen team bonds.


This doesn’t have to mean an expensive away day—something as simple as a shared lunch, a collaborative project, or a casual coffee catch-up can help people feel reconnected. Stronger relationships within the team often translate into stronger motivation at work.

Summary


Motivation naturally ebbs and flows—nobody is 100% motivated all of the time. But with the right strategies, autumn can become a season of renewed focus, wellbeing, and professional growth.


👉 At Holla HR, we design bespoke training, coaching, and leadership packages to keep your people motivated all year round. Get in touch to see how we can support your team this autumn.



Final Thoughts: Continued Awareness through September! September is Suicide Prevention Month


Another important reminder: September is Suicide Prevention Month. With this blog and our recent posts highlighting mental health, we want to share some key contacts again.


Let’s keep the conversation going—not just this month, but every month. If you or someone you know is struggling, please know you are not alone. Support is available:


  • Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24/7)

  • Mind: 0300 123 3393

  • Shout: Text SHOUT to 85258 (free, 24/7 crisis text line)

  • NHS urgent mental health helpline: Find your local service on the NHS website



 
 
 

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