I need to go on leave, but there is no one to relieve me

Q. There were recent job cuts where I work, meaning that all departments, including the one I work for, is stretched to the limit. The last time I went on leave was in August last year, and I feel burnt-out. Though I know that I urgently need a break, I am afraid to ask for leave because there is no one to stand in for me since my colleagues are all busy. What options do I have in such a situation?

It is a legal requirement that all employees take their annual leave within the year to take a well-deserved break and to recharge their energy levels.

This should always be a consideration that management must be aware of even as they restructure.

Companies sometimes need to restructure in response to preparing for new ways of working or expansion. After the restructuring, there might be need for talent with new skills and competencies to drive the organisation to the next level of growth.

More often, however, the objective is to reduce overall costs. When this happens, it means that the workload is more, which may result to burnout. However, since change is inevitable, there are ways that can minimise such fatigue.

One is planning and agreeing on a leave schedule with your colleagues so that there is always one who is sitting in for the others. Two, scheduling to take leave when the activities in your department are off peak. Instead of taking your entire leave break, you could consider taking a few days. You could also suggest to management to automate some processes in the long-term. It’s a costly exercise, but one that may lead to efficiency and also ease pressure on the team. Outsourcing of non-core services is another option the company can explore. This has an advantage since the assumption is that the new provider of the services has more expertise in the specific area. This will leave sufficient time for the team to concentrate on the core responsibilities.

Internship programs usually provide a talent pipeline for companies while also assisting the intern gain skills in the workplace, putting into practice what they have learn in college. Having a continuous flow of interns will ease the pressure you and your colleagues are facing. You could also negotiate convenient working hours with your supervisor to achieve a work-life balance.

For your well-being, you need a break, so go ahead and ask for that well-deserved break and let your supervisor figure out how the department will operate without you for a few days.