Vacation season is here—Time for tips on handling a crush of time-off requests

According to the iconic Gershwin song, the livin’ is easy in summertime. But managing time-off requests can be anything but easy when employees begin their annual jockeying for position on the vacation calendar. As important as time off is for employee well-being, it’s also important to keep the operation moving. So how can employers best manage competing goals: giving employees the time off they want and need while still getting the work done?

Tried-and-true tips

Some strategies for managing time-off requests are obvious; others not so much. Last summer, HR software provider Paychex published tips for managing time-off requests. Among them:

• Encourage employees to plan ahead. Employers that know their employees’ plans well in advance can better ensure coverage year-round, even in high-demand times.

• Document the paid time off (PTO) policy. The policy should answer employee questions, such as how much time is allowed, who is eligible, when PTO can be taken, when requests should be made, and whether unused PTO is paid out at termination.

• Create a uniform way for employees to request time off. The system also must make sure employees know if their requests are approved or denied.

• Post a calendar for all to see. That will minimize overlapping requests.

Getting creative