One in four managers 'still expected to work over Christmas'

A study involving nearly 1,000 managers indicates that one in four are anticipated to stay abreast of work during the Christmas holidays, with a spike in expectations to remain accessible over weekends and bank holidays post-pandemic.

According to the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), private sector managers are more inclined than their public sector counterparts to engage with work during this period. Petra Wilton, policy director at the CMI, has commented: "The Christmas period gives employers and employees a chance for a real break, to spend time with family and to recharge."

She also advised: "Skilled managers and leaders need to ensure that message is getting across to their teams."

Additionally, she warned: "If they are sending signals that they expect people to be available and checking emails, they’ll ultimately end up with staff who are not fresh, rested and ready to take on the challenges that lie ahead."

Emphasizing the remaining holiday focus, Ms Wilton added: "There will always be emergencies, but routine admin and responding to emails should not be distracting people when they are away from work."

Lastly, she highlighted the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance, stating: "It’s counterproductive and risks driving away talented people who will look elsewhere for a reasonable work/life balance."