Being an employer branding agency, we analyze employee perceptions and propensities. And unlimited leave is a growing trend in the corporate world. The idea behind it is that employees should be able to take time off when they need it, without having to worry about accruing vacation days or using up their allotted time.
As a startup, this is a powerful benefit that we use to offset the lack of resources to pay employees more as compared to the bigger boys out there.
That said, this is not a perfect solution and it comes with both pros and cons. What’s important is to be clear of what you are signing up for an finding the best balance to suit your context.
Let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons.
PROS:
1) Increased productivity: When employees have unlimited leave, they are more likely to take the time they need to recharge and come back feeling refreshed. This can lead to increased productivity in the long run.
2) Improved mental health: Employees who feel burnt out are more likely to suffer from mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Unlimited leave allows them to take the time they need to recover without having to worry about work piling up on their desk.
3) Greater job satisfaction: Employees who have unlimited leave tend to be happier with their jobs overall. This is because they feel trusted and valued by their employer, and they know that they can take the time off they need without penalty.
CONS:
1) Potential for abuse: While most employees will use unlimited leave responsibly, there is always the potential for abuse. Some people may start taking advantage of the policy by taking frequent long weekends or extended vacations, which can impact productivity levels in the office.
2) Difficult to track progress: Without set vacation days, it can be difficult for employers to keep track of employee progress. This is because some people may choose to work while on vacation, making it hard to tell if they are actually getting anything done.
3) May lead to resentment among coworkers: If one person takes advantage of unlimited leave, it may lead to resentment among their coworkers who feel like they are picking up the slack. This can create a negative working environment and impact morale levels in the office.
With every policy comes a new set of responsibility. Know what you are signing up for and keep driving a people-centric culture!
This post was co-created with our Chief Content Officer, Kob-i from StoryBuddy. 
