5 ways to make the most of your vacation time
June 27, 2014 4:19 PM
Vacation remorse
Thirty-four percent of senior managers said taking too little time off was the biggest mistake they made with their last vacation, according to a recent Office Team survey. Not being able to get their mind off work came in second (25%), followed by checking in with the office too much (22%). Here are five ways to encourage your employees to make the most of their vacation time. [Image: Shutterstock]
Timing is everything
Encourage employees to avoid scheduling vacations during busy periods. Ask them to make time-off requests early so others can plan ahead. If theyre not sure how long of a break to take, ask them to consider the length of their last vacation and whether or not they needed more time away to truly unwind. Forty-one percent of employees surveyed by Virgin Pulse recently said they feel guilty or stressed about taking time off. [Image: Shutterstock]
Have a back-up plan
Employees should determine who can handle their tasks and make decisions in their absence and provide that person with the necessary instructions and resources to get things done. [Image: Shutterstock]
Spread the word
Workers should let key contacts know when theyll be away and who has been assigned to cover for them. Tell employees to include the alternates contact information on voice mail and email notices. [Image: Shutterstock]
Manage your calendar
Encourage employees to keep their agendas open on the last few days before vacation so they can focus on tying up loose ends. Its also a good idea for employees to avoid scheduling too many meetings the day they return. This will give them time to check email, return calls and get updates from co-workers. [Image: Shutterstock]
Set ground rules
While 48% of employees in the Virgin Pulse survey said theyre expected to be at least somewhat available while on vacation, its important for employees health and well-being that they disconnect from work as much as possible while on vacation. If employees feel they must check in, tell them to set specific times theyll be available instead of being on call the entire time. [Image: Shutterstock]
