We continue to endure the effects of the pandemic with deserted offices and employees still working remotely. Time passed but this is still the order of the day and it shall be the norm post-pandemic. For some this will mean working from home while still being able to go out. Yet, for others, it will be different.
We have employees who are working remotely and still manage to provide us with their services while based at their respective home country in Europe. Restrictions vary from one country to another. In some countries, restrictions even vary according to the region with partial lockdowns being in place for months.
The nature of our work, at least for some of us, gives us the possibility to work from home during a partial lockdown. This has seemingly lessened the scope of taking annual leave. The same applies in the case of restricted travelling. Now wonder many employees argue – ‘Why should I take time off? To stay home?’
In a 7 June post on its website, SHRM stated: Now that work is home and home is work, employees may not properly disengage, making it impossible for them to unplug and refresh.
Thus, time off work is an essential factor in our working lives which provides us with an important opportunity to unwind. This will help us replenish energy levels. Rest is vital both for productivity and mental health. That is why rest is an essential element for good work.
Therefore, taking leave from work, whether your work is based at home or at a workplace, is of great benefit to you.
Managing leave is essential now more than ever. Leaders are required to look into leave management from an employee well-being perspective. Encouraging time off from work should be based on a narrative of mental well-being to reflect the culture within that organization.
If an employer continues to demand work while his employees are off, the credibility of the message is somewhat diffused. The actual behavior is the true message. You have to walk the talk. Leading by example is important and so leaders who take time off work send a strong message in this regard. More importantly, when encouraging people to take time-off, we must make sure that they are truly disconnected.
Planning time off work well in advance should be encouraged and this helps reinforce the company’s message of good practice.
Time off is also a great way to reduce stress caused from working from home. Having zoom meetings and deadlines while also helping your children with home schooling or online lessons have become a great struggle. In some cases, working from home causes more stress than being at the office.
With remote working or home working becoming an integral part of our working life, the role of HR policies in helping to address these issues are critical.