Every CFO wants dedicated, hard-working people – but there’s a limit.
Case in point: Employees who don’t use vacation time and risk getting burned-out.
A recent survey called “Vacation Deprivation” by Harris Interactive found that workers are leaving more vacation time on the table. On average, workers used two fewer vacation days in 2012 than in 2011.
Of course, most employees have two fewer days they can use. Now it’s 12 days, down from 14, because of companies either reducing vacation days or more employees going part-time.
Are employees afraid of this?
Harris asked the 8,600-plus respondents for the reasons why they weren’t using all of their vacation time.
The top two responses:
- “too much work,” and
- “fear of being replaced.”
Could be that some of your staffers or employees in other departments are feeling the same pressures. That can increase fatigue, stress and eventually hinder their performance.
At your next staff meeting, consider talking with people about it. Remind them about times where business slows down and “getting away” is less of an issue.
Also remind them that once vacation days are gone, they’re gone. Take advantage of time off when it’s needed.
Do you know employees who could use a vacation? Share your opinion below.