Summer Work Escapes: Why Gen Z and Bosses Are Ditching the Desk
(SeaPRwire) – By: Christian Pierce
Summer is often seen as a time of relaxation and fun, but it seems that not everyone is fully embracing the work ethic during this season. New research has revealed that productivity takes a dip during the peak summer months, and it’s not just the younger generation slacking off. Bosses are also getting in on the action, with many admitting to taking time off under false pretenses.
The software company PDFFly surveyed 2000 managers and senior managers and found that 85% of them suspect their employees of making fake excuses to take extra time off in the summer. However, it’s not just a one-way street. Half of the management admitted to doing the same thing themselves. The most common excuses used by both employees and managers include pretending that the Wi-Fi is down, making up a dental or doctor’s appointment, or taking a “sick” day. Shockingly, nearly 10% of managers admitted to not even making up an excuse and simply logging on but doing no work.
The impact on productivity is significant, with six in 10 managers admitting that output drops in the summer. 18% say it drops significantly, 42% say slightly, and 37% say they see more than a 10% dip in productivity. In fact, a third of managers say it’s gotten so bad that the company has lost a client or missed a deal.
It’s not just managers who are getting creative with their time off. Nearly 4 in 10 millennials admit to “quiet vacationing,” which means secretly taking time off and going on holiday without telling their boss. They bring their work phone with them and check in every so often to avoid getting caught. A separate study from Resume Builder found that 43% of quiet vacationers sneak off for up to three days at a time, while a quarter take the entire week off.
Others are taking things even further by using medical leave to get up to 12 weeks off, which is job-protected and, in some cases, even paid. While some are boasting about abusing the system for bonus PTO days, many are struggling. One TikToker said taking that time off to work on her mental health, without the risk of being terminated, was “life-saving.”
The researchers behind the “quiet vacationing” study said the trend isn’t laziness, but anxiety. Two in five workers admitted they’re scared that asking for time off will hurt their standing at work. In both cases of medical leave and secret vacations, a common thread runs beneath the behavior: people aren’t sneaking off because the work is too easy. They’re doing it because they don’t feel safe asking for a break honestly.
This trend highlights a larger issue in the workplace. Employees should feel comfortable taking time off when they need it without fear of negative consequences. Employers need to create a culture that values work-life balance and supports employees’ well-being. By doing so, they can improve productivity, reduce stress, and retain top talent.
In conclusion, the summer months seem to bring out the desire for time off in both employees and managers. While some may be taking advantage of the system, it’s important to address the underlying reasons behind this behavior. Creating a supportive work environment where employees feel valued and respected is crucial for the success of any organization.
Author bio: Christian Pierce, chief financial columnist and markets commentator.