CEO combats ‘quiet vacationing’ with trust-based work culture
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES — In an era where “quiet vacationing” is gaining traction, one CEO has found a simple yet effective solution to deter this trend.
David Barkoe, CEO of Carve Communications, believes that fostering a culture of trust and flexibility is key to preventing employees from taking covert time off.
“Go live your life, but get the job done,” Barkoe advised in an interview with Business Insider.
This philosophy encourages staff to manage their responsibilities independently, regardless of when or where they choose to work.
Creating a trusting work culture
At Carve Communications, employees have the flexibility to adjust their work hours to accommodate personal commitments or even work remotely from different time zones while on vacation.
Ashton Mathai, an associate director at the firm, exemplifies this flexibility. She spent two months traveling across Europe, working from various locations while balancing sightseeing and professional duties.
“I would live my life in the morning and then in the afternoon, night, I would do my work,” she shared, highlighting the trust her bosses placed in her to fulfill her duties while abroad.
Contrary to concerns about reduced productivity, Barkoe reports that the transition to a fully remote setup in 2020 led to increased motivation and efficiency among his staff.
He emphasizes that in a small organization, accountability is crucial, and those who exploit the system may not align with the company’s values.
The success of Carve Communications’ trusting, flexible work environment suggests a potential model for other companies wrestling with the phenomenon of quiet vacationing.
Barkoe’s leadership emphasizes that integrating personal life into work culture—not the other way around—can lead to more satisfied and productive employees.
This approach not only combats the need for quiet vacationing but also fosters a workplace where trust and respect are paramount.
Understanding ‘quiet vacationing’
Quiet vacationing, a practice where employees take time off without informing their superiors, has become increasingly popular, especially among millennials.
A recent Harris Poll survey revealed that nearly 40% of millennial respondents admitted to engaging in this behavior.
This trend reflects a growing desire for work-life balance and autonomy among employees.
