Executives More Likely to Unplug on Vacation

More executives may be hitting the beach this summer and not looking back. According to a new survey from Robert Half Management Resources, the trend of executives not checking in with the office over summer vacation continues. More than half of chief financial officers (CFOs) said they'll leave work completely behind on their summer break nearly double the figure from a similar poll in 2010 and up significantly from a 2005 study.

CFOs were asked, During your summer vacation, how often do you typically check in with the office? Their responses indicate that check-ins are becoming less frequent and less likely.

Paul McDonald, a senior executive director with Robert Half in Menlo Park, Calif., noted that the continued trend of unplugging on vacation is good news. "It may indicate that executives have a stronger level of confidence in their teams and processes, and as a result, feel more comfortable skipping regular check-ins," he said. "With the prevalence of wireless networks and mobile devices, they know they can be reached easily if needed."

There are extra benefits to checking out, McDonald added. "Placing trust in a solid team to carry on without your guidance can help you identify potential candidates for succession planning and promotion."

Still, not every executive feels comfortable disconnecting entirely, as evidenced by the higher number of CFOs (27 percent) planning to touch base several times a week compared to 12 percent in 2010 and 14 percent in 2005. "Many leaders continue to oversee lean teams and need to monitor critical initiatives over the summer months, making frequent contact necessary," McDonald added.

While not every executive has the ability to unplug completely, those who can should. "By stepping away completely, people are more likely to gain the restorative benefits of vacation and return to the office recharged and more productive," McDonald said. "Managers also set a positive example when they disconnect, since employees may be inclined to follow suit."

Robert Half Management Resources offers the following tips for preparing to leave the office:

• Set and stick with your out-of-office messages. If you say you're not checking in, but then begin returning messages on vacation, you send mixed signals. If you're inaccessible, stay that way.
• Clarify what constitutes a crisis. Your definition of a crisis may be different from those on your team. Be clear with staff about what situations require escalation and to whom. If you expect to be notified of emergencies, provide a way for people to reach you quickly.
• Limit surprises. Don't expect staff to "wing it" while you're away.Set people up for success in your absence by giving them a heads up on what issues may arise and how they can address them.
• Acknowledge great work. On your return, thank the people who helped the office run smoothly in your absence, including your assistant. Make note of their efforts in their next performance review.

Robert Half Management Resources is a provider of senior-level finance, accounting and business systems professionals to supplement companies' project and interim staffing needs. The company has more than 150 locations worldwide.