UPDATE: A new workplace phenomenon dubbed “quiet vacationing” is rapidly gaining traction this summer, particularly among millennials. Instead of taking formal leave, employees are pretending to work while enjoying personal time away from the office, raising eyebrows and questions about workplace culture.
According to a recent report from U.S. News & World Report, this trend is an evolution of “hush trips,” where employees discreetly take vacations without notifying their employers. This summer, the trend is fueled by advancements in technology, allowing workers to maintain the appearance of being engaged while lounging on a beach or exploring new cities.
The Harris Poll indicates that nearly 1 in 8 workers planned to engage in quiet vacationing last summer, highlighting a significant shift in workplace behavior. Distinct from “workcations,” where employees openly work remotely while traveling, quiet vacationing involves a more covert approach, often leading to increased anxiety and stress among workers.
While it may seem like a harmless way to unwind, experts warn that the practice is fraught with risks. A study by Resume Builder revealed that 40% of millennials secretly take time off without their bosses knowing. Many fear that asking for vacation days could jeopardize their career advancement, prompting them to resort to this under-the-radar approach.
Conor Martin Hughes, a senior professional with the Society for Human Resources Management, advises against quiet vacationing. He states, “While it provides short-term benefits, employees need to fully recharge without distractions.” Hughes emphasizes that this practice can be perceived as dishonest, potentially leading to resentment among colleagues.
Career coach Kyle Elliott points out that one telltale sign of a quiet vacationer is a “shift in the frequency or timing of their responses.” If an employee who typically replies promptly suddenly takes hours to respond or communicates at odd hours, they may be on a secret getaway.
Experts recommend that instead of sneaking in vacations, employees should have open discussions with their employers about work-life balance and expectations. The trend of quiet vacationing may reflect deeper cultural issues in the workplace, such as a lack of psychological safety and unclear guidelines on time off.
As the summer progresses, the implications of quiet vacationing could reshape workplace dynamics and challenge traditional notions of time off. Employers and employees alike must navigate these changes carefully to foster a healthier work environment.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and its impact on the future of work.