Last year I had a discussion with a friend from college who is a British expatriate living in the Netherlands, and working in the Hague as an environmental economist. While discussing the various perks and tax incentives he would be enjoying while working in the Netherlands, we happened upon the topic of vacation time. I was shocked to learn that he not only benefits from several weeks of paid vacation, but that he actually receives a vacation stipend—a fairly large percentage bonus (in proportion to his annual income) that he is supposed to use and spend while he is away on holiday. However, it is not only the tangible benefits my friend receives which are markedly different from what one might expect in the U.S. The way the Dutch see and approach vacation time is quite different from how the archetypal American worker approaches the issue of vacation. As Liz Wolgemuth of U.S. News & World Report surmised, “Even without a fear-inducing recession, Americans are so chary about cutting out of the office that career experts often chide them to take time away, refresh themselves, turn off the Blackberry, stop checking E-mail, and learn how to relax.” In short, despite his or her deep attachment to work, the American Worker is in desperate need of some time away. Yet, there are a few things to keep in mind when scheduling your vacation time.
Wolgemuth reports that, before heading off to vacation, it is important to tie up loose ends, and above all, include your boss during the scheduling process. In particular, there are 7 things Wolgemoth says all employees should keep in mind before leaving for some exotic beach or, perhaps, the less exotic destination of a house of a relative or parent. Employees should rethink leaving for vacation…
- When the company is in crisis.
- When you haven’t planned ahead.
- When you’re in the middle of a project.
- When it’s the busiest season for your company.
- Immediately following a merger or acquisition.
- During executive or key client visits.
- Anytime a team member or supervisor leaves.
If you have to leave, or if during your scheduled vacation any of the above is happening, what is important is to be open and honest with your boss. Scheduling conflicts often can’t be helped, but by planning far in advance and speaking with your supervisor about any vacation plans long before they are scheduled to happen, they can be avoided!
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