Paid vacation time is typically part of an employee’s benefits package. Currently, no federal law requires employers to provide paid vacation and it is not required under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA.) However, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 90% of full-time employees in private industry receive paid time off, and for good reasons!
Providing these benefits as part of an employment package can entice applicants to apply for a job. However, the real payback is the benefits the employer gets in return like improved productivity, magnificent work culture, and work- life balance.
Offering paid vacation time is a great perk, but what’s the point if your employees are not utilizing their vacation time? ClarityHR helps businesses make the most of all the benefits companies offer, including using paid vacation time.
The ClarityHR team recommends creating a plan for encouraging employees to take their paid vacation time. The success of your paid time off policy will depend on the culture you create around it.
TIPS TO HELP ENCOURAGE YOUR EMPLOYEES TO USE THEIR PAID VACATION TIME
1. Communication: Send a company-wide email or hold a meeting to inform them about the importance of using their vacation days. Explain the benefits of taking time off for their well-being and the company’s overall performance.
2. Review Paid Time Off Policies: Ensure employees understand the company’s vacation policies.
3. Develop a Vacation Calendar: Implement a company-wide vacation calendar. This will help employees plan their time off without overlapping with their colleagues, causing minimal disruption to workflow.
4. Encourage Vacation Planning: Encourage employees to plan their vacations well in advance. When people plan early, they are more likely to secure their preferred dates and give the team ample notice.