MENLO PARK, Calif. – As executives plan their summer getaways, a lot more of them will completely leave the office behind, compared to previous years. That’s according to a new survey from Robert Half Management Resources, which provides senior-level finance, accounting and business systems professionals to supplement companies’ project and interim staffing needs. The survey was conducted by an independent research firm and includes responses from 1,400 CFOs from a stratified random sample of U.S. companies with 20 or more employees.
The survey found that 51 percent of CFOs interviewed said they do not check in with the office at all while on vacation. That’s nearly double the figure from a similar poll in 2010 (26 percent) and up significantly from a 2005 study (21 percent).
Paul McDonald, a senior executive director with Robert Half, noted that the continued trend of unplugging on vacation is good news.
"It may indicate that executives have a stronger level of confidence in their teams and processes, and as a result, feel more comfortable skipping regular check-ins," he said. "With the prevalence of wireless networks and mobile devices, they know they can be reached easily if needed."
There are extra benefits to checking out, McDonald added.
"Placing trust in a solid team to carry on without your guidance can help you identify potential candidates for succession planning and promotion."
Still, not every executive feels comfortable disconnecting entirely, as evidenced by the higher number of CFOs (27 percent) planning to touch base several times a week compared to 12 percent in 2010 and 14 percent in 2005. "Many leaders continue to oversee lean teams and need to monitor critical initiatives over the summer months, making frequent contact necessary," McDonald added.
While not every executive has the ability to unplug completely, those who can should, the firm said.
"By stepping away completely, people are more likely to gain the restorative benefits of vacation and return to the office recharged and more productive," McDonald noted. "Managers also set a positive example when they disconnect, since employees may be inclined to follow suit."
Robert Half Management Resources offers the following tips for preparing to leave the office:
* Set and stick with your out-of-office messages. If you say you’re not checking in, but then begin returning messages on vacation, you send mixed signals. If you’re inaccessible, stay that way.
* Clarify what constitutes a crisis. Your definition of a crisis may be different from those on your team. Be clear with staff about what situations require escalation and to whom. If you expect to be notified of emergencies, provide a way for people to reach you quickly.
* Limit surprises. Don’t expect staff to "wing it" while you’re away. Set people up for success in your absence by giving them a heads up on what issues may arise and how they can address them.
* Acknowledge great work. On your return, thank the people who helped the office run smoothly in your absence, including your assistant. Make note of their efforts in their next performance review.
