Having internet access while on holidays can be handy for planning and leisure, but it also makes us more vulnerable to checking up on work at the same time. A survey suggests that many of us succumb to that temptation, with two-thirds saying they have taken advantage of technology to work during breaks.
The survey of 500 Australian workers, commissioned by HR advisory firm NorthgateArinso, also found that 30% of people worked during their daily commute. I do that myself, and I don't think that's problematic in and of itself; the issue is being sure your employer recognises that this is part of your work routine.
Similarly, the problem with working on holidays is partly a question of scale. There's a big difference between looking at your email once during a week-long vacation and dedicating time to it every day. The former ideally wouldn't happen, but shouldn't wreck the holiday for you or fellow travellers; the latter definitely suggests a problem.
Comments
i just don't see the problem...why shouldn't people be contentious or responsible if it will make their job easier for them or others?
I've never had a problem with leaving work at the office. Maybe its due to the fact that I'm yet to hold a position that I *really* enjoy; but I don't define myself by what I do, nor do I feel that a job will overwhelm me if I don't paid it additional attention outside my standard hours. If the latter were to happen, then I see that more as a failing of my employer being able to adequately control the flow of work delegated to me, than a personal failing on me to dedicate enough time to a task.
Jobs to me, are just that - jobs.
Simple, if you have a work phone, leave it a work/home, if you have a work laptop, leave it at home/work before you go on holidays. Thats what holidays are for, to recharge the batteries, its your right.
I can relate to this. I got key clients line QLD rail and Garmin & when certain work isn't completed it affects THEIR client el as well mine. I often finish work get home and get back to work or log in on the weekend to answer a few emails.
I used to have a simple job but I found with a job with this kind of responsibility I enjoy it at the same as by my word alone I make significant changes in services and products so serious jobs have there own rewards(aside from money).
I tend to keep my work phone on me all the time since I'm the sole IT staff member, but almost all the people I work with are fairly considerate about that - I probably get one call a week after hours, and maybe two per week if I'm on holiday.
Given my work overlaps with my personal time anyway (server patching/updates after hours), I just let my personal time take up a certain amount of work time instead. My boss is fairly flexible with time management, so it works well.
Perhaps this is more of a small business owner's problem. Australia is known for being a country of small businesses. The problem is, when you go on holidays, you don't get paid. Also, you always seem to remember a critical, undone task just as you duck out the door.
The key to a good holiday for me is (1) Pick a time of year when you know it is quiet. (2) Warn all your clients and associates well in advance such that they will feel guilty if they bug you.
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