Survey shows workflow apps can make professionals feel obligated to check in during time off, says expert
Vacation does not always mean time that workers can fully enjoy away from the workplace, according to a recent report.
In fact, only 22 per cent of workers feel refreshed and ready to work after a long holiday, reports Robert Walters.
The remainder report concerns about falling behind on projects, missing important updates, or returning to a heavier workload. And 74 per cent report feeling anxious upon returning to work after paid time off (PTO).
This is the case while time-off tax—defined as employees putting in extra hours just before taking vacation—is shrinking, according to a previous report.
“Professionals suffering from PTO anxiety not only threaten to lower already historically low engagement rates, but our research suggests that it could have major implications for productivity rates for workplaces across the country,” says Sean Puddle, managing director of Robert Walters North America.
Fear of backlogs
Most Canadians are not even able to fully enjoy their time off, according to Robert Walters’ survey.
In fact, 66 per cent of Canadian professionals check their work emails during PTO to reduce the backlog they’ll face upon returning, while 28 per cent do so to stay on top of urgent matters.
“Apps such as Slack and MS Teams help to put work right at our fingertips 24/7 – while useful, they can result in professionals feeling obligated to ‘check in’ during their time off.”
Just under a third (31%) of workers in Canada took all of their allotted vacation time for 2024, according to ADP.
Fixed vacation periods
Nearly half (46 per cent) of workers state they’d find it easier to relax on PTO if their teams were also off, reports Robert Walters.
And 53 per cent note that they’d be interested in testing out fixed periods of leave in their company.
However, 20 per cent of Canadian professionals express concerns that adopting such shutdowns could limit their overall flexibility. And 35 per cent of Canadian employers agreed, stating that implementing such periods would be too disruptive—e.g., too costly or hampering productivity.
Sean comments: "To boost productivity, employers need to help staff truly disconnect during PTO, so they come back reset and ready to dive into their work. Business operations won’t halt just because someone is on holiday, so it’s crucial for employers to reinforce and value the right to switch off within their company culture.
"There isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for PTO or holiday policies. Instead, strategies should be customised to prioritise employee wellbeing, engagement, and productivity."
How to encourage employees to take full time off
To encourage workers to get the most out of their vacation days, Employment Hero suggests that business leaders set an example.
“Employees often look up to their managers and emulate their behaviour, so it’s essential for leaders to model healthy habits. When leaders take breaks, prioritise self-care, and set boundaries around work, they send a message to their team that it’s okay to do the same.
“Moreover, when leaders prioritise their mental health and well-being, they can perform better at work. They are more productive, have better decision-making skills, and are better equipped to handle stress and challenges that arise on the job.”
Setting clear policies and creating a supportive company culture are also important, according to the recruitment firm.
