As we write this, spring has sprung, and for many of us, it means we’re contemplating spending time away from the office. Taking a well-deserved vacation helps maintain a work-life balance and prevent burnout. However, leaving work behind for a vacation can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re worried about tasks piling up or important projects getting delayed. To ensure a smooth transition and peace of mind while you’re away, here are three essential things to do to prepare at work before leaving for vacation.

What Should You Do Before Leaving on Vacation?

Plan and Prioritize Tasks

Before you embark on your vacation:

1. Take some time to review your current workload and upcoming deadlines.
2. List all the tasks that need to be completed before you leave and prioritize them based on urgency and importance.
3. Identify any projects or assignments you can delegate to your colleagues or postpone until after your return.

Create a detailed schedule for completing tasks leading up to your vacation can help you stay organized and ensure that nothing falls through the cracks. Use project management tools or apps to keep track of deadlines and share progress with your team members. Communicate with your colleagues and manager about your vacation plans well in advance so they are aware of your availability and can plan accordingly.

Planning and prioritizing your workload can minimize stress and avoid the last-minute rush before your vacation.

Set Up Out-of-Office Notifications

One of the most important things to do before leaving for vacation is to set up out-of-office notifications on your email and other communication channels. Communicate the dates of your absence and provide information on who to contact for urgent matters.

In your out-of-office message, include alternative contacts within your organization who can assist with inquiries or emergencies in your absence. Provide instructions on reaching them or directing colleagues to relevant resources or documentation that may help them address issues independently.

Additionally, consider setting up email filters or rules to categorize and prioritize incoming messages based on their importance automatically. This proactive effort can help you focus on urgent matters while filtering out non-essential communications that can wait until your return.

By setting up out-of-office notifications and providing clear instructions for colleagues, you can ensure that essential tasks are addressed in your absence and minimize disruptions to workflow.

Delegate Responsibilities and Empower Your Team

Many “type A” personalities are terrible at delegating. However, delegation ensures that work continues smoothly in your absence. Identify capable colleagues who can take on specific tasks or projects while you’re away and empower them with the authority and resources they need to succeed.

Communicate clear expectations and deadlines to your team members and provide any necessary training or guidance to ensure they feel confident in their roles. Trust your colleagues to make decisions and handle responsibilities independently, but make yourself available for support or guidance.

Encourage open communication within your team and establish regular check-ins to monitor progress and address any issues that may arise in your absence. By delegating responsibilities effectively and empowering your team members, you can foster a sense of ownership and accountability that will benefit the entire organization.

Staffing Up Before Vacation

Prepping at work before leaving for vacation involves careful planning, effective communication, and delegation of responsibilities. CPS can help by providing the staff you need to beef up your team to carry the load while you’re away. Talk with our expert recruiters and take your next vacation with confidence.