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Our workplace experience (WX) trends series looks at recent news articles, videos, social media posts, and thought leadership pieces on workplace experience. You’ll also hear from our experts on what’s trending.
This week in WX trends, we learn that workers aren’t taking as much vacation as they could be – but should they be forced? Next, five tips to help you truly unplug on your next vacation. Finally, do you get the back-to-work blues? Here are some strategies to overcome them.
With workplace burnout on the rise, employers are exploring ways to ensure their employees take much-needed breaks.
While only 8.7% of companies currently mandate vacation time according to a report by the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans, this topic is gaining traction as firms recognize its importance. Many employees still don’t use their full paid time off, with an average of only 15 days taken annually, as per a Harris Poll survey, despite having more available to them.
High burnout rates, particularly among younger workers and women, highlight the urgency of this issue. Experts interviewed by CNBC suggest that companies need to track vacation usage and understand why employees aren’t taking time off. Factors like heavy workloads and insufficient staffing often prevent employees from recharging, the article explains.
Implementing mandatory vacation policies can help, but it’s complex and may face resistance, the article continues. Alternatives like company-wide shutdowns during holidays or requiring employees to use or lose their vacation days are also being considered. Clear communication and leadership by example are crucial in encouraging employees to take breaks, the article concludes.
“Ultimately, organizations must balance the need for vacation with operational demands and legal considerations to foster a healthy, productive workforce”, says Holly Grogan, Chief Experience Officer at Appspace.
Imagine you’re on a beach vacation, book in hand, cocktail nearby, but instead of enjoying it, you’re swamped with notifications on your phone from work.
Many of us struggle to truly disconnect during vacations, according to a Bloomberg article. Jolen Anderson from coaching platform BetterUp highlights that vacations not only reduce stress and burnout but also boost productivity and job satisfaction.
However, a survey of 2,300 U.S. and Canadian employees by Elvtr shows that 68% of people work during vacations, and 57% feel anxious if they don’t check emails.
Kelly Nolan, a time management strategist, claims that often it’s not emergencies but the anxiety of missing out that pulls people back to work, the article states. To combat this, experts suggest planning ahead and managing expectations.
Here are five tips to do just that:
Plan it right: Block time before and after your vacation to wrap up and catch up on work.
It’s all about the timing: Choose vacation times that don’t clash with major work events.
Delete, delete, delete: Remove work apps from your phone to help you disconnect.
Be ready for a 911: Have a plan and designate a colleague to contact you only if necessary.
Is this the right vacation?: Tailor your vacation to what you need, whether it’s relaxation, family time, or something else.
Getting back to work after a vacation can be tough, with 87% of workers dreading the return according to a Zapier survey. Common challenges include re-establishing a routine, catching up on tasks, and managing busy work.
Forbes has some tips to ease the transition. By implementing these strategies, you can make the transition back to work smoother and more enjoyable.
Plan ahead: Before your first day back, plan your tasks and avoid scheduling meetings in the morning. Get to bed early and consider arriving at the office early.
Feeling fresh? Start a new habit: Use the return as an opportunity to establish new work habits, like taking regular breaks and minimizing phone distractions.
Prioritize: Focus on critical, time-sensitive tasks first and avoid multitasking to reduce stress.
Connect: Socialize with colleagues to boost your mood and stay informed about workplace happenings.
Personalize your space: Surround yourself with meaningful mementos and items that spark joy to make your workspace feel welcoming.
For more trends workplace experience trends and insights, explore the WX Hub.
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