HR: Employees Need to Take Vacation!
It’s a known fact that employees who set aside time for R &R have less burnout, more creative energy and higher quality productivity. Unfortunately, not all American workers take advantage of their vacation days. 
A recent study from CareerBuilder found that financial constraints and demanding work schedules have some workers forgoing vacation plans this year. More than 5600 employees participated in the study nationwide. Of the employees surveyed- Twenty four percent reported they can’t afford to take a vacation in 2011, up from 21 percent last year. Twelve percent reported they can afford a vacation, but don’t have plans to take one this year. Another thirty percent reported they will contact their office while on vacation.
Not taking a vacation can prove to have negative effects for employees. Vacation is critical not only for the health and well being of employees, but for their job performance as well. Employees perform at a higher level when they are rested. Its important for workers to take time to de-stress and recharge.
Vacations play a fundamental role in fostering a healthy, productive workforce. It’s vital for employers to do all they can to encourage their employees to take the vacation time that is due to them. Whether through policy (“use it or lose it”) or by example (owners & managers should take time too) – encouraging employees to take vacation is not only good for their well being, it’s good for the business too!