We conducted a survey of 2,000 full-time employees in the United States to determine the holiday season’s effect on productivity. Our results reveal that it’s not just money that keeps employees motivated. Here’s what we found:
MANAGERS DON’T ALWAYS MAKE ASKING FOR TIME OFF EASY. Over half of employees said they’re uncomfortable asking their manager for time off during the holidays. The top reason, they say, is that their manager expects them to be available during their time off.
REMOTE WORK AND OFFICE CLOSURES YIELD GREATER HOLIDAY PRODUCTIVITY. Over half of employees surveyed said their companies allow them to work remotely. Among this group, there’s no ambiguity about the efficacy of working remotely; the overwhelming majority — 91% — told us they’re just as productive or more productive when doing so.
We have several recommendations, based on the survey data and our experience as workforce consultants in a tight job market:
— CLOSE THE OFFICE FOR ADDITIONAL DAYS BEYOND FEDERAL HOLIDAYS, WHEN FEASIBLE: If it’s not possible for your business to close for additional days during the season, then it’s even more important to offer workers alternative ways of disconnecting and recharging, such as greater scheduling flexibility.
— CONSIDER FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING: During the holidays, 38% of employees want fewer in-office distractions so they don’t feel they have to put in overtime to get their work done. Others want to come in and leave early to have more holiday family time. For these workers, flexible scheduling options during the holidays can significantly drive productivity and morale.
— PROVIDE BETTER TRAINING FOR MANAGERS: While managers can’t blindly let their entire team take the holidays off, they can do a better job of having open conversations with their employees.
If you create the right environment by listening to employees’ needs and equipping your managers to make good decisions, you’ll ultimately help your employees and the business get through this busy time of year successfully.
(Michael Hughes is a managing director with West Monroe and a member of the executive team.)
