altres.com
Ah, vacation! Whether you prefer an elaborate, activity-filled getaway or spending the day on your lanai with coffee and a good book, vacation time is essential to replenish the body and mind. Corporate wellness programs often focus on nutrition and exercise, but sometimes the best way to build a happy, healthy workforce starts with encouraging employees to take a break!
It sounds counterintuitive for most business owners, but well-rested, reenergized people are more productive, take fewer sick days and stay longer with a company. Even if you already believe in the benefits of time off, it may not be easy to convince your workers to feel the same. Some people are reluctant to take time away from the office because they don’t want to appear uncommitted, while others just don’t think they need a vacation. Here are a few ways you can encourage workers to use their vacation benefits.
Communicate benefits.
If you want your employees to use their benefits, it’s important to ensure that they understand what perks they’re entitled to. Communicating company benefits not only shows that you value your employees, but also helps control costs around employee benefits.
Define company values.
A work culture that supports employee well-being and work-life balance will naturally encourage employees to take their vacation. As such, treat time off as a normal, expected part of business. Absolutely avoid dumping last-minute projects on employees as they’re headed out the door.
Consider a use-it-or-lose-it policy.
This is one way to ensure that employees make it a priority to take time off. Allowing employees to carry over unlimited vacation hours means that some individuals could go several years without taking a vacation.
Practice what you preach.
If managers never take vacations or are constantly working even when they’re not in the office, employees will think they’re expected to do the same. Set an example by taking a few days off to recharge and, on the flip side, pitch in when an employee is away on vacation.
Encouraging employee vacation time has so many benefits for individuals and businesses, what are you waiting for? Happy vacationing!
