Sussex-based marketing agency Smart Monkey Marketing has introduced unlimited annual leave to encourage an improved work-life balance for its three full-time members of staff and four freelancers.
Under the policy, a minimum number of days should be taken as annual leave per quarter, so that staff are aware that, while they do not need to book a certain number of days off, there is an expectation that they should take the time they need to allow themselves to rest. Staff will still need to request holiday approval, giving as much notice as possible.
According to the agency, this aims to create a relationship of trust between the employer and the employee, giving the latter the independence to choose when to take time off, while helping to increase productivity and wellbeing in the workplace.
It stated that the policy gives employees accountability to plan their own work schedules, while working together as a team to make sure all work is completed on time and to the acknowledged standard.
Beth Nash, chief executive officer of Smart Monkey, said: “We don’t like the idea of you missing out on an incredible once in a lifetime experience, or a last-minute day-trip, because of a holiday allowance. We also know that when you are working in our team, you will want to deliver outstanding work for your clients, so we trust you to know what that means and to get the balance right. We also want you at your best, so we encourage you to take at least a minimum of five days holiday every quarter.”
Jamie Dinning, search engine optimisation specialist at Smart Monkey, added: “I am able to strike a much better work and life balance by no longer feeling restricted or earmarking days of my leave for future plans or holidays and that already has felt like a small weight has been lifted off my shoulders. It is interesting to read about the number of businesses in the UK that are recognising recent reports of employee burnout and are reviewing flexible working and holiday entitlements to help employees be at their best.”
