10 weeks ago I booked a long-weekend trip to Dubai and I remember thinking at the time “everything will be under control by then!” We’ve had a lot of things going on in the business recently including two new staff members joining, a new division launch, new interview rooms installed and other major works to the building; hence the reason I felt I wanted to get away for a few days and would need the break!
So today is the day I go on holiday – in fact I have a half day booked! But this week has been one of unexpected challenges, staff illness, tenders and audits – and I’m wondering where all the hours have gone.
Being a Manager of a very busy and successful recruitment agency – often I feel taking any more than a couple of days holiday is not an option as there are always many plates to spin and responsibilities to juggle..
In my line of business I often come across key people who run their own business or are a key figure and they too seem to struggle with the thought of taking time off for holidays, let alone a 1-2 week holiday out of the business. Is this a limit we put on ourselves or is it the reality of the role we have taken on?
My view is that it can be both depending on where your business is and when you want to holiday.
I have to say I am always amazed at my fantastic team who seem to always be ready to take on key tasks and responsibilities when needed to ensure I feel confident when I am away. This reminds me that delegation is key in business as well as the development of the team around you so that they feel confident in taking on responsibilities in your absence.
What we sometimes find hard to do is put that responsibility on those around us as we appreciate the hard work and efforts they are already putting in or we feel that perhaps we are best qualified - but does this stunt the business and limit growth?
From my experience I think it does – let’s face it when we are recruiting we look for “team players”, we want staff that are “passionate” about our business as much as we are and if we’ve done the recruitment right then we have these kinds of individuals in our business.
So isn’t this the perfect time to see this in action?! – Of course it takes planning, trust and the willingness to delegate but I truly believe it can be rewarding and can reiterate the strength of the team that you have around you.
What I have always been happy to consider is support for those that support me and if this means getting in a temp to help then why not? This ensures that those that need the support, get it and in turn learn the art of delegation, training and planning!
So if your reading this and really need a holiday think about those around you – how can you work together to make it possible? It may take some planning but I am sure you can make it happen and of course - if you need some help with Temp cover then Uxbridge Employment can always help!
So why not give it some thought and when I speak to you next I look forward to hearing about your holiday plans and the well deserved rest that you’ve enjoyed!