The Growing Trend of Remote Work During Vacations
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What you should know
Do you find it difficult to switch off when you're not in the office? According to a new survey from People Management, two-thirds of employees admit they often work while on vacation. And this is just the latest in several pieces of data this year that show the lines between work and play are blurring.
New research has found that two in five workers suffer from “chronic stress” on a daily basis. With both overtime and mental health issues on the rise, it's time for HR to focus on what they can do to limit employee stress.
What others say about it
Ceri Mallon, HR manager at Everun, told People Management: "If you have to work regularly in your free time, then something is wrong - with the resources, with the development/management of your team, with the information you receive. Whatever the problem is in your workplace, it's better to fix it than burn everyone out.
What this means for you
The connection between overwork and burnout is well documented. With the holidays approaching, it's time to take stock of how the lines between "on" and "off" are blurring in your company - and set guidelines to help employees stick to their official work hours.
This is what we would recommend:
- Encourage your employees to delete work apps from their phones: We've all been guilty of responding to work emails when we should be relaxing - often because it's so easy to do so on ours Access your inbox. Discourage this practice by advocating true digital distance from the office - and emphasize that there are no organizational expectations to download these apps in the first place.
- Offer recognition and appreciation beyond the Christmas party: Towards the end of the year, it is important to build in moments · of gratitude. Ask managers to express appreciation at review meetings, consider holiday bonuses, or highlight significant accomplishments in team-wide communications.
- Actively encourage the use of PTO days: It's easy to have a few vacation days left at the end of the year. Encourage your employees to book these days instead of carrying them over to the next year - and encourage your managers to lead by example.
- Allow more flexibility during vacation time: At the last minute, problems in work or home life can arise and cause stress. Flexible schedules, reduced work hours, or more days working from home can help reduce this stress.
- Remind your employees about mental health support: Whether your company offers access to counseling, mindfulness apps, or wellness scholarships, now is the time to remind employees of the support they are entitled to.
In the midst of the evolving work landscape, IceHrm advocates for a balanced approach to work and personal life. With the growing trend of remote work during vacations, it's crucial for organizations to prioritize employee well-being and set clear boundaries.
