Employee sabbaticals aren't a common benefit at most employers, but one company that offers them finds they're an effective way to fight burnout and turnover.
Since New York City consulting firm SAPRO instituted its sabbatical program, said Mary Maguire, executive vice president of global strategic partnerships, its employee engagement score has risen to 83 percent—13 percent above the industry average. The firm's turnover rate dropped to less than 5 percent—20 percent less than the industry average.
"Those who took sabbaticals reported higher commitment to SAPRO, renewed energy, confidence in their skills and were eager to step up," Maguire said. "Further, those who filled in during the sabbatical-taker's absence had their own experiences of self-discovery and were able to showcase their talents."
At SAPRO, employees do not need to justify their sabbaticals. They can take a break for one to three months with half pay and full benefits.
"Employees may take a sabbatical for various reasons, such as personal growth, career development, burnout or simply to take a break from work," Maguire said. "Sabbaticals can provide employees with time to pursue personal interests, travel, engage in volunteer work or pursue education."
Making employees justify the reason for taking a sabbatical could create the perception that the company doesn't trust or value its employees, she said.
"Employees may be hesitant to take a sabbatical if they feel they will be judged or penalized for it,"...
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