Employees Are Struggling to Unplug from Work While on Vacation

What’s going on:      

Data from a recent survey published by Ceridian reveals that while 94% of the survey’s respondents see the benefits of taking time off, less than 47% say they completely disconnect from work while they’re away.  

74% of the survey’s respondents say that the ability to work virtually makes it easier for them to take a vacation. However, more than two-thirds (70%) say there is something that prevents them from doing so. 34% said that travel has become too expensive due to inflation, and 32% say they can’t afford to take a vacation, among other causes cited in the report.  

Why it matters:     

Vacations are typically viewed as a time for employees to revitalize and take a break, with 75% of the respondents saying that taking a vacation improves their mental health. However, the findings show how even with the cultural shift towards remote work due to the pandemic, the line between work and vacation has become somewhat blurred.  

Studies into remote work, like the Ceridian/Harris Poll, are important for organizations to better understand how to manage change effectively and ensure a healthy work-life balance for their employees. These insights help leaders to establish a culture where employees feel free to disconnect and take time off without worrying about work coverage. 

How it’ll impact the future:       

Some companies are changing their approach to these issues by placing more of an emphasis on work-life balance and employee well-being. This shift in organizational culture can potentially lead to a decrease in burnout rates and an increase in overall job satisfaction and productivity. 

Organizations may also need to implement more flexible vacation strategies and use data to monitor the effectiveness of these policies. In the future, the workforce will likely see a greater emphasis on employee well-being, with companies prioritizing time off and encouraging employees to truly disconnect during vacations.