I give all my employees August off on full pay. Here's how it works and why it's boosted productivity.

• Jo Hunter was already offering her employees remote working and a four-day week.
• Last year the social enterprise cofounder introduced an 11-month year with no reduction to salaries.
• Hunter repeated the move this year and says taking a month off is a revelation – and good for business.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Jo Hunter, CEO and cofounder of 64 Million Artists, about her decision to let all staff take August off on full pay. The following account has been edited for length and clarity.

I started 64 Million Artists in 2014. We're a social enterprise that helps employees in companies, universities, schools, and other organizations rediscover their creativity.