Managers: 3 holiday rules to follow

Whether you're heading for the beach or a quiet staycation, holidays are an important time to help you recharge. But before you pack your bags, let's talk about the three essential steps you need to take before you put your work pass away. 

1. Set That Out-of-Office (and mean it) 

It might seem obvious, but we all know that little voice that tells us to just "quickly check our email." This is the easiest yet one of the biggest mistakes a manager can make. Setting your out-of-office is a powerful signal, to yourself and your team. Not only does it tell them that a break is crucial but also that you trust them to handle things. If they see you responding from your sun lounger, it sends the message that they can't manage without you, and it undermines the very break you're trying to take. 

2. Empower Your Team 

Before you head off, put someone in charge. This isn’t just about delegating tasks; it's about giving them the authority and responsibility to make decisions. It's a fantastic opportunity for someone to step up, build their confidence, and grow their skills. Knowing you have a capable deputy in place will give you true peace of mind, and it'll show your team you believe in them. If it helps, so they feel supported, organise a friendly senior mentor in the business they can call on to run ideas past. 

3. Leave the Work Phone at Work! 

By leaving your work phone behind, you’re creating a boundary that allows you to fully disconnect. It's a bold move, but it shows incredible confidence in the people you lead. You'll be surprised at how well they handle things when you give them the space to do so. Of course, if you are in a critical senior role, make sure those that need it have your personal number for absolute emergencies. 

Remember, taking a proper break is not just good for you, it’s good for your team as well. You are not only showing the importance of work-life balance but also giving them the space and opportunity to learn and develop their management skills.