By Megan Cox
A recent study shows that Aussies are too busy for holidays, with people stockpiling their leave for many reasons including the worry of returning to hundreds of emails and calls, management practises and policies and as a buffer, particularly in light of the economic downturn.
No matter what the excuse, it is integral that Aussies get out and have a well-deserved break from work. The impacts on employers and employees of not taking a break are staggering and include:
- Adverse impacts on health and wellbeing of individuals
- Potential ‘burn out’ of staff
- Potential increased absenteeism
- Increased OHS issues
- Financial liability to businesses including potentially unrealised costs as the value of leave increases each leave
But, if employees are keen to hold onto their leave, how do employers encourage a culture where taking leave is acceptable and encouraged?
There are many proactive steps businesses can take to encourage leave taking in the workplace such as:
- Encouraging management to “walk the talk” and take leave themselves;
- Encouraging team leaders and managers to identify which employees have stockpiles of leave and work with them to develop a plan to take some of their leave; and
- Supporting employees who are going on leave to ensure their work is covered so they can relax and enjoy their holiday (and not come back to thousands of emails!)
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No Leave, No Life is an initiative of Tourism Australia that aims to encourage Australians to take their leave and enjoy a great domestic holiday. To assist employers in encouraging a culture where annual leave is taken, No Leave, No Life has a range of free tools and templates available to help businesses. To register, visit www.noleavenolife.com.au
