Sabbaticals are planned, strategic job pauses that allow you to travel, do research, volunteer, learn a new skill, or fulfill a lifelong dream. The most meaningful sabbaticals are planned ones – with specific goals and objectives designed to benefit both you and your company. A sabbatical is an opportunity for intentional reflection, professional development, personal growth, transformative insights, and renewed passion.
Sabbaticals come in all shapes and sizes. Your time away can be paid, unpaid, partially paid or even self-funded. Some programs require an application. Others do not. Your sabbatical length may vary but most are from four to ten weeks. And while many companies allow workers an unrestricted time away – meaning they can do whatever they choose – others have specific requirements and objectives. For example, some sabbatical programs are geared toward community service or innovation research.
Sabbaticals vs. Vacations
Sabbaticals are NOT simply vacations. Whether you decide to travel, take classes, or pursue a new experience, sabbaticals broaden your perspective, helping you make connections and develop fresh ideas that are applicable to your field.
VACATION vs. a . . . . . . . . . . . SABBATICAL
Usually not goal oriented Achieves personal and career goals
Reflection is possible Intentional reflection is necessary
Work waits for your return Work has a solid coverage plan
BlackBerry is on BlackBerry is unplugged to business
Optional sharing upon return Planned sharing with boss and co-workers
Planned according to interests Planned according to interests & necessary outcomes
Little input from others Seeks input from other sabbatical goers, boss
Paid with short-term funds Needs long-term financial plan
Little thought to enhancing career/life Purpose is to enhance career/life
Focus on recovery Focus on rejuvenation
Possible increase in creativity Intentional focus on more creative juice
Sabbaticals Give Your Company an Edge
- Fostering a team-based service model
- Building your brand as an ‘employer of choice’
- Fostering a healthy work-life balance
- Reducing the cost of turnover expenses
- Retaining experienced talent
- Developing leadership from within
- Generating employee loyalty
- Developing a culture of innovation
- Boosting enthusiasm and productivity
- Managing talent during a recession