No escape from the office for workers

Over one third of employees work while on holiday, while 40% return feeling more stressed, new research has revealed.

A survey of almost 2500 managers, conducted by the Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM), found that 80% of respondents who work while on leave frequently respond to emails, while almost half answer work-related phone calls. 

Penny de Valk, chief executive of the Institute of Leadership & Management, said: “Gone are the days when people cut off contact with work for a fortnight over the summer and made a complete break. 

“While technology means that it is easier than ever to work remotely, it also makes it extremely hard to switch off. Uncertain times also mean that many UK employers are keeping one eye on their job at all times, when what they really need is time away from the office to rest and re-energise.”

The research showed that half the respondents admitted it took them at least two days to unwind from work, while 40% said they felt more anxious when returning to work than before they went.

De Valk added: “It is a real concern that so many employees return to the office after annual leave feeling more stressed than when they left. This anxiety is almost certainly due to the high workloads we anticipate returning to, and the fear of what might be waiting for us.

“Everyone needs a decent break from time-to-time to recharge and regain a fresh perspective on life and work.”

© Crimson Business Ltd. 2010