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Managers and Workers See an Upside to Unlimited Vacation but Most Wouldn't Take Advantage of the Perk

TORONTO, July 20, 2015 /CNW/ - Unlimited vacation seems like an enticing workplace benefit, but can it also boost productivity? Yes, new research from staffing firm The Creative Group suggests. Nearly four in 10 (39 per cent) advertising and marketing executives interviewed believe office output would increase if employees could take time off whenever they wanted, as long as their performance didn't suffer.

But while more companies may be offering liberal vacation policies in an attempt to attract and retain talent, it seems many professionals are hesitant to take advantage of the perk: A majority of executives (72 per cent) and workers (56 per cent) said the amount of vacation they would take would remain the same if there were no limit to their personal holidays.

View an infographic of the survey findings.

"In theory, having complete control over vacation time can be empowering for employees; but in practice, regardless of the policy in place, constant deadlines and project demands can make it challenging for employees to take necessary time off," said Deborah Bottineau, senior regional manager of The Creative Group. "To help reduce the pressure of deadlines and to make it easier for staff to take much-needed vacation, managers can look to various options, such as hiring freelance professionals, to ensure projects stay on track."

Bottineau also advised managers to lead by example. "Managers shouldn't neglect their own vacation time; being an example for your staff is a great way to encourage them to follow suit, and ensures you're getting a break as well."

Advertising and marketing executives and workers were asked, "If an unlimited vacation policy* were instituted at your company, what impact do you think it would have on staff productivity?" Their responses:

Executives and workers were also asked, "If your company instituted an unlimited vacation policy, do you think you would take …?" Their responses:

*Employees can take as much paid time off as they want, as long as their work gets done.
**Responses do not total 100 per cent due to rounding.

"It's important to take the time to unplug and get away from work. Not only does this prevent burnout, it allows all professionals the chance to recharge and return with fresh business insights and project ideas," added Bottineau.

For tips on building in more vacation time this summer, visit the TCG Blog.

About the Research
The surveys were developed by The Creative Group, a specialized staffing service for interactive, design, marketing, advertising and public relations professionals. They were conducted by an independent research firm and include responses from more than 400 advertising and marketing executives, and 430 workers 18 years or older and employed in office environments.

About The Creative Group
The Creative Group (TCG) specializes in placing a range of highly skilled interactive, design, marketing, advertising and public relations professionals with a variety of firms on a project and full-time basis. More information, including online job-hunting services, candidate portfolios and TCG's blog, can be found at creativegroup.com. Follow @RobertHalf_CAN on Twitter for additional workplace news and hiring trends.

SOURCE The Creative Group