52% of Americans that received paid vacation time in 2016, did not use their allotted time. Are we headed towards higher numbers for 2017? The workaholic approach is deeply embedded in our culture, but employees that do not take the time to recharge, often find themselves stressed, overworked, sick and their overall performance suffers. As an employer, you should be careful when you see employees not using their time.
Are vacation time roll-overs allowed in your organization? Perhaps buying back unused paid time? Each of these can be beneficial, but we should be mindful of the reasons employees aren’t using their time:
Roll-over policy – 35% (using for extended trips or life event)
Too much work – 23%
Enjoy working – 16%
Can’t afford vacation– 13%
Fear of losing job: 4%