Half of Aussie tech staff may work remotely from holidays

A survey by Robert Half reveals that half of Australian tech workers might choose to work remotely from a holiday destination without informing their employer.

The survey, conducted among 1,000 full-time office workers in Australia, including 214 tech workers, highlights a trend where 17% of tech employees have worked from a holiday destination without notifying their boss, and another 35% would consider doing so in the future. The main motivations include extending their holiday (49%) and leveraging flexible working conditions (57%).

Nicole Gorton, Director at Robert Half, commented on the phenomenon known as 'quiet vacationing'. "As a result of the widespread remote working phenomena, a fascinating trend of what some call \'quiet vacationing\' is emerging where employees take advantage of the flexibility of their job to work from holiday destinations without notifying their employers," Gorton said.

Despite this emerging trend, 48% of employees have not worked and would not consider working from a holiday location without informing their employer. Gorton further noted, "This trend underscores a significant shift in how work and personal life are blending in the modern workplace as workers seek ways to maximise their work-life harmony. But while all employees deserve and need a holiday to fully recharge, combining work and personal life in this way without disclosing it to your employers can erode trust and lead to conflict."

The likelihood of engaging in remote work from a holiday destination varies by generation. Gen Z workers are the most inclined, with 17% having done so, and 40% considering it. Millennials follow with 12% and 35%, respectively. Gen X workers show similar tendencies at 12% and 32%, and Baby Boomers are least inclined at 8% and 26%.

The study outlined several reasons why tech employees might take their work with them on holiday. Aside from the flexibility benefits (47%), other factors include saving money (38%), and a boost in productivity (27%). Some are motivated by a fear that their employer will not approve holiday requests (25%).

There is a varied perception among employees regarding possible employer reactions if such work activities were revealed. About 32% believe their employers would not take action as long as work duties were fulfilled, while 35% expect a breach of trust with no further consequences. A more significant concern is reflected by 28% who anticipate formal warnings or disciplinary actions, and 5% who believe it might lead to termination.

Gorton provided insights for companies on addressing the quiet vacationing trend. "Companies should analyse the motivations behind \'quiet vacationing\' so that employees don\'t feel the need to do so," she said. "By understanding employees\' reasons, employers can create more supportive and flexible work environments while also setting clear expectations and boundaries to avoid potential misconduct."

As the evolving landscape of remote work continues to influence the division between professional and personal life, Gorton emphasised the importance of trust and communication. "As remote work continues to evolve, the concept of work and personal life is likely to become increasingly fluid. But at a time when more employers are calling staff back to the office, this will become more challenging given the new in-office requirements. Accordingly, employers and employees alike will need to navigate this new landscape with a focus on trust, communication and mutual benefits," concluded Gorton.