The days of British bosses swanning off for weeks at a time, to get away from the stresses and strains of work are definitely a thing of the past, according to the latest survey conducted by Stark Brooks Associates.
7 out of 10 business people surveyed said that they called their office at least once a day while on holiday, with 5 out of 10 saying that they liked to be contactable at all times in case of an emergency. 97% said that they took their mobile phones, 68% took either a laptop or blackberry to make sure that they could access their emails and 36% said they that wouldnít consider staying in a resort that didnít have wireless access.
Sally Toumi, Managing Director at Stark Brooks comments: ìAlthough many bosses think that by making themselves available while on holiday, they are ensuring that the business remains productive and that nothing will go wrong, in reality their constant communication could actually be having a negative effect. Not only will their work force feel that they are not being trusted to do their jobs in the bossís absence, but they are also giving themselves no time to relax and recuperate in order to return back to the office revived and ready to face the work load that awaits.î
Although the survey revealed that many people are not using their holidays for the rest and relaxation intended, it also showed that many people donít actually find the time to take their holidays at all, as they are self confessed workaholics. As a member of the senior management team, or as the director of a business, it is essential that you are always equipped to deal with any situation that may arise. People who immerse themselves this deeply into their working life will find that the littlest problem is enough to push them over the edge and in situations where they need to be able to think clearly and make important decisions, their mind is so clouded by the smaller details that they are not able to see the bigger picture.î
Toumi says: ìAlthough for many people, it is not feasible to disappear off for long periods of time where they cannot be contacted, they do need to ensure that they find a happy medium. Even if the two-week summer holidays are swopped for various short breaks throughout the year, a healthy work life balance should be something that everybody works towards. Being contactable while away can cause arguments with peoples partners and it is therefore important to come to an arrangement that gives you the piece of mind of knowing that all is running smoothly back in the office, while also getting to spend quality time with your other half.î
With the summer season approaching the conclusion is that holidays are a must, giving you time to clear your mind and the ability to return with fresh ideas and perspective, enabling you to drive the business forward. Forward planning and clear briefings to all staff should ensure that all should run smoothly while the boss is away.
The Great British HolidayÖDoes it even exist?
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