How to Adopt an Unlimited Vacation Policy
During tough economic times, companies are exploring methods of motivating the work force other than pay raises. Some employers are rethinking the distribution of extra benefits, such as paid vacation time. They are embracing the idea of allowing employees unlimited paid time off.
The rationale is that workers should have the time to develop outside projects, take extended vacations or spend time with family. Salaried employees' performance is measured not by the number of hours spent in the office, but by work quality.
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Instructions
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Review the existing policy. The management team, human resources department and benefits representative should meet to discuss the current vacation policy. Determine whether employees are overusing or underusing the vacation benefit. If the benefit is underused, consider shifting to a system in which the accrual and use of vacation time is no longer monitored.
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Research the alternatives. Unmonitored time tracking may be the best solution for salaried employees, particularly if they telecommute or work from home. Hourly employees, or those with location-specific positions, may be less suitable candidates. Contract workers or those who currently work part time may not be eligible.
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Rewrite the policy. Update any related materials for distribution to the employees. Reallocate the time saved by any staff members who were responsible for tracking time cards and vacation hours.
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Inform staff of the policy change. The human resources department should roll out the new policy. It will be responsible for answering questions and training staff on the new policy. Encourage staff members to take the time they need without feeling guilty. Let employees know they will need to make themselves available to cover for other team members who are on vacation. A team environment makes the policy possible.
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Monitor the change. Evaluate work performance on sales, customer satisfaction surveys or other forms of measured feedback. Time spent in the office is no longer used to measure an individual's success in his position.
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Tips & Warnings
After a trial period, take a poll of employees and those with whom they interact outside the company. Employees may be more productive and happier with the new arrangement. This creates a positive work environment and contributes to the success of the business.
Some employees may need to be reminded or given permission to take time off. Some may resist the new policy to prove they are good workers. Let them know that that is not the case and discuss allowing them time to complete projects outside of work.
Make it clear to individual employees that the new benefit should not be abused. The ability to take time off should be balanced against the work duties and measured by positive work performance.
References
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