Ceridian's VP of HR Programs, Kelly Allder, recently wrote an article espousing the benefits of having employees take "real vacations" from work. Allder's article begins by citing surveys and studies indicating that today's workers are experiencing burn out and feeling overworked. Many survey respondents have also stated that workplace stress also negatively affects them on a personal level, leads to a decrease in productivity, and may cause them to leave their jobs.
The article noted that Americans are taking less vacation today than they did 15 years ago. Contrary to what may be a common misconception, however, taking time off from work does not hamper an individual's efforts to get ahead. In fact, quite the opposite appears to be true. Specifically, evidence has shown that the more vacation time a worker takes, they more success they have at work ? probably because taking vacations leads to lower stress levels and more happiness both in and out of the workplace.
Therefore, Allder suggested that employers encourage their staff to not only take time away from work, but also to make the most of that time. In order to help employees take a "real vacation," she offers the following advice:
- Advise employees to plan trips at least a month in advance, so they have time to plan a relaxing vacation.
- Let employees know that maintaining a healthy work/life balance is an important part of the company's culture.
- Promote the availability of vacation days and other time away from work.
- Assess workloads through one-on-one meetings to ensure employees are not overworked.
- Utilize technology such as human capital management software to help streamline processes, which in turn reduces people's workloads.
- Be a positive role model (and don't brag about not having taken a vacation for a long time).