Short Vacations Can Prevent Reinvigoration
When employees return from vacations seemingly out-of-sorts, the reason could be that they did not take enough time off. A survey by Office Team, the staffing service organization, found that more than four out of ten employees (43%) returning from vacation said they took insufficient time off.
A total of 571 men and women, all 18 years of age or older and employed, responded to the survey. Other responses included: couldn't relax or get mind off work (17%); checked in with the office too much (8%); and didn't prepare or organize work well prior to leaving work (7%).
Executive Director Diane Domeyer of Office Team said: "Employees fearful of falling behind on projects or not seeming like team players often put off vacations or limit breaks to long weekends. Lean staffing levels in recent years have left many professionals with increased pressure at work, but this makes the need to recharge more vital than ever."
Domeyer said collaborating with co-workers can help employees rest easy while away. "Inform colleagues of the status of key projects before you leave and designate a point person in your absence."
To get the most benefit from a vacation, Domeyer offered employees four tips:
- Use history as your guide. Consider your last vacation, including what you did, how much time you took, and whether or not you felt reinvigorated on your return. Use this experience as a basis for planning your next break.
- Resist the urge to check in. Change your voicemail and e-mail to let colleagues know you're away. Don't contact the office unless necessary. The more connected to work, the less time you have to unwind.
- Avoid scheduling too many meetings for the day you return. You'll need time to address immediate issues, catch up on e-mail, and get updates from coworkers on the status of projects.
- Seize the day. Don't wait until you're in dire need of a vacation to take one; regular breaks can help keep you motivated all year long.
