Approximately 61% of American workers don’t take their vacation time. Most fear their employers will decide they are replaceable. Many workers worry their managers won’t approve vacation time or they will face a huge workload when they return to work. Some may worry that they might be passed over for a promotion if they take vacation time.

Research has shown, however, that not taking periodic breaks can lead to mental and physical issues for the worker.

Employers must be concerned that their workplace culture doesn’t discourage time off by workers. One HR Expert suggests that companies could implement such policies as:

• Adopt a generous or unlimited vacation plan
• Establish a mandatory or minimum vacation policy requiring everyone to take a certain number of days off each year.
• Contribute a percentage of worker pay in matching funds to an employee’s vacation savings account or give a prepaid gift card to use for vacation.
• Ensure & promote the practice of taking vacation time. Leaders who never take vacation time, send a message that success is contingent on working all the time.
• Talk to employees, one-on-one, about the importance of taking vacation time.

Work/life balance creates a more productive employee. Those who take their vacation time are more engaged, less stressed, and more productive.

Workplace Diversity

Workplace diversity is a hot topic today.

According to a Forbes report, more companies are increasing diversity in their staffs by creating employee resource groups to support all kinds of diversity, including gender, ethnicity and age.

The hope is that such groups will help promote the positive aspects of having a widely-diverse employee base.

Companies with greater workplace diversity create an advantage for themselves by outperforming their competitors, and they ultimately.

HR obligations face many new local & state laws. From shared insurance payments to alien worker rules, employment laws are complex, & HR Departments are expected to handle it all. An HR expert like Rick Ratner can connect you with sources & experts to help your business comply with the more complicated and newest laws.

Emerging Workplace Trends

1. Deloitte research found that companies making use of people analytics out-perform others. With quality of hire, retention, & leadership capabilities, they rank higher in their employment brand.
2. Workplaces will become more collaborative. HR managers should encourage conversation that inspires a “shared approach,” for more employee engagement.
3. Create learning opportunities. More companies will offer development courses and AI-assisted employee learning recommendations.