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TORONTO, April 9, 2013 /CNW/ - There's no clocking out for many chief information officers (CIOs), according to a recent Robert Half Technology survey. Nearly half (47 per cent) of CIOs said they check in with work "often" or "somewhat often" on evenings and weekends. Thirty per cent said they never check in outside normal business hours.

The survey is based on more than 270 telephone interviews with CIOs from a random sample of Canadian companies with 100 or more employees. Robert Half Technology is a leading provider of IT professionals on a project and full-time basis.

CIOs were asked, "How often do you check in with work on evenings and weekends?" Their responses:

"Many CIOs feel that part of their job is to check in after hours," said Leslie Heathers, metro market manager of Robert Half Technology. "As customers and end users may require technical support around the clock, many professionals in the IT industry feel it is necessary to be available in case any critical issues should arise."

Added Heathers, "Even for the busiest CIOs, disconnecting from the office can provide leaders with additional time to recharge and tackle their day-to-day activities with a fresh point-of-view. Though it might not be possible in every case, IT leaders should make an effort to limit the number of times they access email or voicemail, or check in only at designated times."

Robert Half Technology offers four tips to limit after-hours work for CIOs and their teams:

1. Identify the 'mosts.' When every project seems to be top priority, focus efforts on those that will save the most money, grow the most revenue or open doors to the most new business. Encourage your staff to use this same approach to manage their time.
2. Be realistic about internal resources. Understand your staff's workload, knowledge level and experience. Bringing in outside consultants to manage certain projects may result in faster execution and fewer errors.
3. Avoid micromanaging. Set milestones and regular check-ins, but otherwise let staff run initiatives when possible. Getting mired in details will slow the process and take away from everyone's already limited time.
4. Practise the golden rule. Show respect for others' schedules. Avoid planning meetings that, on closer inspection, aren't necessary. Don't keep staff waiting for feedback and approvals.

About Robert Half Technology
With more than 100 locations worldwide, Robert Half Technology is a leading provider of technology professionals for initiatives ranging from web development and multiplatform systems integration to network security and technical support. Robert Half Technology offers online job search services at www.rht.com. Follow Robert Half Technology at www.twitter.com/RobertHalfTech.

SOURCE: Robert Half Technology