Many employees will be taking time off over the summer to spend time with their friends and family. Regular annual leave supports our mental and physical health, helping us to feel energised, rested and motivated.

If you have holiday booked over the summer, dedicate some time beforehand to handing over and switching off properly. This will help you to disconnect from work, which is important for maintaining a good work-life balance.

Our top tips:

• Set up a clear out of office message on your emails directing people elsewhere
  • Your out of office should confirm when you are scheduled to return and if there is an alternative person who can be contacted in the meantime.
  • Example: I am out of the office on annual leave from DATE to DATE. In my absence, if you have an urgent query please contact NAME, EMAIL ADDRESS. Alternatively, I will respond as soon as I can when I return.
• Change your voicemail greeting to let callers know you are away, and when you will return.

• Redirect SAP workflow to a nominated person – see the step by step guide here

• Clear any meetings out of your diary.
• Identify any tasks that can’t wait until your return and ask for support from colleagues.
• Prioritise work that needs to be completed before you go off and speak to your Manager if you need help with this.
• Remember that other people may also be away at the same time as you.

It can feel challenging to spend time away from work without checking in but remember that lots of other people will be off too.

Annual leave is important – switch off and enjoy!