Finding Personal Time In A New Work Era

In today's digital work era, remote work has blurred the lines between personal and professional life, making it challenging for employees to fully disconnect. Despite being physically distant from the office, workers feel pressure to remain constantly engaged. Recognizing these challenges, business leaders are pioneering innovative strategies to support genuine breaks and prioritize employee well-being in a remote setting. Effective time off practices are crucial for digital well-being.

Mark Schell, Chief Human Resources Officer at Intero Digital, emphasizes wellness by encouraging employees to take the time off they need. Intero Digital's flexible paid time off policy and consideration for shutting down operations for two weeks annually demonstrate a commitment to employee well-being from the top down. Marti Willet, President of Digital Marketing Recruiters, fosters a culture where vacations are celebrated rather than frowned upon. By implementing processes to cover work during absences, Willet ensures that employees can relax without worry. Leadership plays a key role in this cultural shift, as visible disconnection from work sets a positive example for the team.Gloria St. Martin-Lowry, President at HPWP Group, advocates for work-life integration, recognizing individual needs and schedules. Unlimited PTO offers maximum flexibility, but leadership must actively encourage its utilization. Creating an atmosphere of trust and value for employees' well-being is paramount. Audra Walter, Chief Strategy Officer at MUSE, emphasizes the importance of a supportive team dynamic for effective time off. Early planning for vacations and collaborative project management enable employees to disconnect without disruption.

By prioritizing flexible policies and promoting a culture of rest, leaders can enhance the well-being and productivity of their remote teams, investing in their organization's long-term success in the digital work era.

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