New research indicates that high-performing employees take more vacation time, suggesting that a generous — or unlimited — vacation policy has a positive impact on the workplace.
The report from HR technology company analyzed data from more than 125,000 employees and found that high performers take about five more days per year than most PTO plans – 19 days of paid time off a year – five more than an average performer under a regular PTO plan.
Not only does taking vacation contribute to enhanced well-being and productivity but it also prevents toxic negative attitudes that are often contagious. So the question is, if vacations benefit the organization and the employees, why are we taking less and less of it? One key reason is fear – fear that their manager will think less of them for taking vacation; and fear of the backlash of work to do when we return.
This article has several suggestions to encourage
employees to take vacation time. Breaks should actually be taken regularly – and not just during longer vacations – even mini breaks during the day are extremely beneficial. We blogged about ‘Discontinuous Productivity.’ Here is an additional past blog on this topic:
The Dark Side of Not Unplugging
