It’s that time of year again where we try and get as much sun as possible and get the fear the night before our imminent return to work. But let’s not focus on that bit just now. Here are seven things every employee should do before heading off to that summer sun.

1 Out Of Office

It’s first on the list as it’s usually the last thing we do. It is also something that most people tend to forget as they power off their machine and run out the door. It’s good practice to add a short message explaining that you are OOO and if possible, give them another contact within the company who might be able to help while you are away. Customers who are kept in the loop of your return are usually more accepting of any delays that may occur.

2 Plan of Action (Holiday)

Apply for your leave well in advance. Make sure your colleagues know when you’re off. Try and plan your holiday so that it doesn’t clash with an important deadline or project.

3 Plan of Action (Return)

Hit the ground running when you come back, summer tends to be slow for a lot of businesses but the next few months are really going to come around fast. Before you know it, it’ll be Back to School season, followed quickly by Halloween, and then the holiday that shall not be mentioned while the sun is shining. Therefore it’s best to plan ahead before your vacation. Come back to less stress and more you being awesome at your job.

4 How’s my favourite customer?

Never neglect the customer. It might take significant time out of your day but a simple call to your most regular customers can do the world of good in terms of creating brand awareness, customer retention and strong business relationships. This becomes even more important for any project based work. Communication is key here; make sure the customer knows that the gears will still move while you are away.

5 The Handover

To a colleague, supervisor or boss, doing a handover is crucial. It covers you for anything you might have missed and knowing that everything is off your plate will really help you relax while at the beach living your best life and not getting a call asking how do I find the really important money making folder on the sharedrive. We suggest writing out clear bullet point instructions on how someone else can do what you do and make sure it gets into the hands of the right people. Currently my desk is full of sticky notes, with a brief explanation on what to do in the eventuality of any office disaster. Whatever works for you.

6 Clean Up

I can’t believe we have to write this but, my god, the amount of gone off milk in the fridge must double at this time of year. Make sure to throw out any perishable items instead of returning to something that resembles the Swamp Thing. Don’t forget to keep your office sanctuary the temple it was the first day you got there. Basically, just wash your mug when you finish your coffee.

7 Quick Update

It’s the last day before two weeks of bliss. You have completed all your tasks, prepped staff and customers that you will be away, you’ve sent emails, made calls…but there will always be someone who didn’t get the memo. Check in with staff and give them a quick reminder that this is your last day in the office. This will help minimise any first day business calls requesting info that they could (should) have got from the array of sticky notes at your desk.

Follow these seven tips, enjoy your holiday, forget about work and come back refreshed.

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