As we navigate the seasonal demands of our industry, managing employee stress and preventing burnout are paramount to maintaining a healthy, productive team. In our safety topic this month, we're focusing on practical strategies to support our staff's well-being. From implementing flexible work policies to fostering an environment where taking breaks is normalized, we’ll explore effective ways to ensure our teams remain energized and motivated. Keep reading for actionable tips that can help create a more balanced workplace.

Safety Topic of the Month: Employee Stress & Burnout

We all know and can recognize when summer fatigue hits our employees. They physically look tired, they are mentally worn down and disengaged, and morale can seem at an all-time low.  So, what should you do during those seasons when it feels like everyone is just hanging on by a thread and treading water?

Below are some ideas to help boost employee engagement during peak season to ensure your employees are happy, healthy, and productive during the most stressful times of the year.

1. Show your support - Working in the weeds as I like to call it means you are in the trenches with your staff, supporting them, offering help in stressful situations, and just being an active part of the day-to-day operations which goes a long way with your staff as they know you care and are there with them sharing the heavy workload. Your title could be CEO but when you offer to do linen deliveries to remote properties on the weekends, that speaks volumes to your staff and makes them want to work even harder because even the boss is out working in the field.
2. Bonus/Incentive Programs - Money talks and can be a huge motivator during peak season so keeping a bonus/incentive program running helps keep employees engaged.  You could base the program around the following ideas:
   1. 5-Star Reviews
   2. Attendance/Missed Shifts/Assigned Tasks
   3. Peer-to-Peer Recognition
   4. Guest and Owner Survey Scores
   5. Performance Metrics (ex: all laundry bags packed 2-3 days in advance, etc.)
3. Employee Raffles - Create a point system where employees can get raffle tickets and hold weekly or monthly raffles for prizes like gift cards, electronics, tickets for local attractions/concerts or even a big prize like a free staycation in one of your properties!
4. Ice Cream Days - Give out popsicles or host an ice cream bar during hot days to give employees a cold, refreshing treat.  Hire a food truck vendor who does ice cream or shaved ice to come and treat your staff.
5. Games - (Scavenger Hunts, Bingo) - Use free online resources to create fun, interactive games for your staff so they can participate either in the office or in the field. Use this as a tool to promote teamwork, peer-to-peer recognition and keep them focused on guest and owner satisfaction. Keep your prizes on the cheaper side so that you can play more often, giving more employees the opportunity to win.
6. On the Spot CASH recognitions - Implement a system where managers can give out small cash rewards on the spot for employees who go above and beyond their duties.
7. Small Tokens of Appreciation - Pinterest has the cutest ideas for employee appreciation gifts like putting a Hershey’s bar, some marshmallows and graham crackers in a bag with a label that says, “We need S’more employees like you” or giving out Powerade drinks with a tag that says, “You are the Power behind our business”. These are cheap and sometimes cheesy, but they will definitely help brighten up the employee’s day. 
8. Summer Swag Bags - Give out summer-themed swag bags with items like tank tops, water bottles, cooler/lunch totes, beach towels, and hats branded with the company logo.
9. Hydration Stations - Set up hydration stations with cold water, sports drinks, and healthy snacks to keep employees cool and energized on busy days.
10. Employee of the Month Award - Create a peer-to-peer recognition program where employees get to nominate a co-worker for “employee of the month” who has gone above and beyond and displays your company values. If your company has a mascot, you could even name your award after the mascot and have a physical statue made for the employee to keep on their desk or in the field with them. Or, you could have a designated parking spot with a sign stating “reserved for employee of the month” so they continue to feel special every time they arrive at work.

All of these ideas can make a tangible difference in boosting employee engagement and morale during peak seasons by showing appreciation and support that directly benefit the employee.

Deep Cleans vs. Mid-Stay Cleans

By Sean Kemper, ETI Solutions LLC

In short-term rental cleaning, there are three main types of services: vacation cleans, deep cleans, and mini or mid-stay cleans. 

Vacation cleans are conducted after each guest checkout, focusing on preparing the property for the next guest. This includes changing linens, cleaning bathrooms and kitchens, vacuuming, dusting, and general tidying to ensure the space is spotless and welcoming.

Deep cleans are more thorough and are typically done less frequently, such as seasonally or annually. These cleans go beyond the standard upkeep and include detailed tasks like cleaning behind appliances, washing walls, deep carpet cleaning, and addressing areas not covered during regular vacation cleans. The goal is to ensure the property is in top condition by addressing accumulated grime and thorough sanitization.

Mid-stay or mini cleans in the vacation rental industry involve a light cleaning service during a guest's stay. This service helps maintain the property's cleanliness and comfort, addressing tasks like refreshing linens, emptying trash, and tidying common areas. It's designed to enhance the guest experience without being intrusive. Mid-stay cleans can also include restocking supplies, which is particularly important for longer stays. This service not only keeps guests satisfied but also helps property managers maintain high standards of cleanliness throughout the rental period.

Mid-stay cleans are a valuable service in the vacation rental industry, offering numerous benefits for property managers and guests. These intermediate cleans ensure that the property remains in top condition throughout the guest's stay, maintaining a high standard of cleanliness and hygiene. By scheduling these cleans, property managers can address any issues that may arise during the stay, such as spills, stains, or general wear and tear, which could otherwise accumulate and become more challenging to address after checkout.

Additionally, mid-stay cleans provide an opportunity to evaluate the property's appearance and functionality while guests are present. This proactive approach allows for early identification of maintenance needs or potential damages, ensuring they are addressed promptly. By keeping the property well-maintained and clean, property managers enhance the overall guest experience, leading to higher satisfaction and potentially better reviews. It also demonstrates a commitment to quality and care, which can build trust and loyalty among guests.

Furthermore, mid-stay cleans can save time and effort during the final checkout clean. By maintaining the property's cleanliness throughout the stay, the end-of-stay cleaning process becomes more manageable and less time-consuming. This efficiency reduces the workload for cleaning staff and minimizes downtime between guest stays, allowing for quicker turnovers and increased booking potential. In summary, mid-stay cleans are critical for ensuring the ongoing upkeep of vacation rental properties, enhancing guest satisfaction, and streamlining property management operations.

Utilizing sustainable cleaning products, like those designed by ETI Solutions, offers significant benefits in both mid-stay and deep clean scenarios. Sustainable products are not only eco-friendly but also safer for cleaning staff and guests, as they typically contain fewer harsh chemicals. This reduces the risk of allergic reactions or respiratory issues and promotes a healthier indoor environment. Additionally, sustainable cleaning solutions often have lower environmental impacts, aligning with growing guest preferences for eco-conscious accommodations. Using these products demonstrates a commitment to environmental responsibility, enhancing the property's appeal to eco-conscious travelers and potentially leading to increased bookings. By integrating sustainable cleaning practices, property managers can uphold high cleanliness standards while supporting a healthier planet.