CHICAGO, May 25 (UPI) -- U.S. workers are more in need of vacations than ever before, a Chicago outplacement consult said Thursday.
John A. Challenger, head of Challenger, Gray & Christmas Inc., said that U.S. employees are taking fewer vacation days than ever and that the most vacation time people use at one time tends to be a mere five days.
"In the fast-paced, 24-7 global economy, it is critical that workers have time to recharge. Employers should encourage workers to use all of their allotted vacation time and attempt to take at least one two-week break every other year," said Challenger.
More and more recruiting ads are touting "generous" vacation policies, a sign that companies are emphasizing time away from work to attract new workers.
Syntek, a Maryland software engineering firm, offers three weeks of vacation upon joining the firm, five weeks after eight years and a 3-month sabbatical after 10 years.
"Employers should insist that little if any work be done by the vacationing employee. Employers may lose the person's output for a week or two, but they will benefit in the long run from increased productivity, higher morale and a deeper commitment," Challenger said.
