Summer Slowdown? 5 Leadership Reflections

It’s peak holiday season, and it can be challenging to maintain momentum while people are away.  This slightly quieter time can actually be a great opportunity to reflect on some key areas that can have a huge impact on both leaders and teams.

We’ve got some ideas for you.

1️⃣ ‘Leadership in the Gaps’: How Great Leaders Show Up When Others Are Away

Take a really good diagnostic look at how your organisation functions.

Who are the people who step up, and what are you doing to support them?

What falls through the cracks?  Is this happening because of unclear accountability? What steps can you take to prevent this from happening in the future?

2️⃣ ‘Seasons of Work’: Why Leaders Should Embrace (Not Resist) the Summer Slowdown

Pushing for consistency at all costs can be counterproductive. Try embracing this slower time and use it for some deep thinking.

What kind of leadership does this season call for, and how can you adapt your leadership style accordingly?

3️⃣ ‘Consistency vs. Rigidity’: What Should Stay the Same When People Are Away?

Healthy consistency is essential for organisations to function and meet their goals.  For example, elements such as purpose, values and customer experience should all be consistent throughout the whole year.  However, there might be some areas where a bit of flex is needed.  Take the time to identify what essentials have to be protected and maintained, and what processes can be relaxed a little.

4️⃣ ‘Leadership Succession in Miniature’: Holidays as a Test of Delegation and Empowerment

Summer is actually a brilliant time to test out delegation and empowerment.  It’s a really good opportunity for leaders to find out how well they’ve developed their teams.  Are people able and empowered to step up during your absence, or is everything put on hold until you’re back at work?

What steps can you take now to prepare for next summer?  Yes, we know it’s 12 months away, but you’ll thank us for being prepared next year 😊.

Tip: Think about some actions you can take now to prepare for next summer – can you delegate a decision, coach someone through a new responsibility or update your holiday handover process?

5️⃣ ‘August is for Asynchronous Leadership’: Rethinking Visibility When You’re Not in the Room

This one doesn’t just apply to August.  Now that so many organisations have a mix of hybrid work, flexible schedules and holidays, leaders aren’t always physically present.  It’s really important as a leader to consider how you can maintain your influence and support, even when you aren’t physically there.

Take some time to reflect on the signals you send when you’re away..  Ask yourself how much your team is empowered to do when you’re away.

Taking some time to reflect on these key areas will set you up for success, not just next summer, but throughout the year.

Victoria Buckenham 2025