RECESSION WOES PUT VACATION DAYS IN THE RED New Yahoo! HotJobs research reveals economic downturn is leading to a summer vacation slump SUNNYVALEMay 21, 2008 Increasing workloads and threats of a recession have Americans feeling stressed and in desperate need of some time off. However, results from Yahoo! HotJobs' latest survey indicate that rest and relaxation are the first workplace casualties of rough economic times this summer. In fact, 51 percent of respondents to Yahoo! HotJobs' second annual summer vacation survey report that they are planning to forgo their vacation this year and save money instead. "A perfect storm of economic factors is developing, says Tom Musbach, senior managing editor, Yahoo! HotJobs. "The economic downturn is leading to layoffs and stretched resources, which in turn leads to increased workloads and pressure to improve performance. Employees, now more than ever, need a break from the pressure, but are instead choosing to forgo vacation in order to meet growing demands and protect dwindling wallets. Eventually something will have to give. When asked how the economy is impacting their workplace, 35 percent of respondents say they feel constant pressure to improve performance, despite 44 percent of employees reporting they have a heavier workload than last year. Economic stress has even led 38 percent of respondents to look for a new job and 35 percent to update their resume. "Last year's summer vacation survey revealed that 45 percent of respondents left unused vacation days on the table, says Musbach. "As the economic downturn continues, pressures rise, and the year progresses, it will be interesting to monitor vacation patterns to see if 51 percent of employees forgo vacation as indicated, or if that number continues to increase. On the Brink of Burnout With employees facing constant stress, it should be no surprise that burnout is on the rise. The majority of survey respondents (57 percent) report feeling "burned out by work, up from 49 percent last year. According to survey results, some of the biggest workplace stressors include (from most to least stressful): 1. Leadership structure 2. Lack of resources to get work done 3. Too much work, unappreciative or demanding clients and the boss (all tied) 4. Poor economy 5. Co-workers Specifically, 44 percent of respondents say they are less focused when they feel stressed and 36 percent say they are less productive. Unfortunately, employees who do use their vacation days aren't necessarily spending their break enjoying personal time or interacting with friends and family. Many respondents (41 percent) say they take time off for a "mental health day and 48 percent admit to using their time off to run personal errands. Staying Sharp It is vital for employees to know how to reduce workplace stress to keep their productivity and job performance high during these rough economic times. While a complete vacation from all work-related activities is the best prescription for easing stress, taking time off or traveling far away is not always possible or affordable. Here are a few alternative suggestions from Yahoo! HotJobs for easing workplace stress: " Avoid procrastinatingPressure to meet deadlines can be a huge contributor to workplace stress. If you have extra time to complete a task, take advantage of it right away instead of leaving the task to be finished in a hurry at the last minute. " Learn to say noKnow which tasks fall within your job responsibilities and which do not. Don't be a collection plate for your co-workers' unpleasant tasks. " Make time for breaksTaking short breaks throughout the day, especially after a stressful event, can help you refocus on your priorities and put things in perspective. " Take care of yourselfMake sure you are exercising, eating a balanced diet, and not skipping meals. Keep yourself hydrated throughout the day. Staying healthy will keep your mind sharp and better able to deal with those work curveballs. " CommunicateNo matter how fantastic your boss or co-workers are, no one has the ability to read minds. Let your boss or co-workers know if you are stressed, overworked, stumped by a difficult work situation, or frustrated by leadership. If you are willing to admit you are stressed, you can begin to work with your boss and co-workers to remedy the situation. Escape Workplace Stress, Courtesy of Yahoo! HotJobs For all those employees who so desperately need a break from work but are saving money instead, Yahoo! HotJobs wants to lend a hand this summer. From May 21 through July 14, 2008, visitors to Yahoo! HotJobs (www.hotjobs.yahoo.com) can register for a chance to win a luxury travel package to Tahiti in the Escape to Tahiti Sweepstakes.* The package, a nine day island hopping trip, includes airfare, stays in luxury hotels on the islands of Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora and activities such as snorkeling and JEEP safaris. About the Survey Data was collected from more than 1,100 people with jobs via an online survey questionnaire across the Yahoo! network and fielded nationwide. Fifty-three percent of respondents were male and forty-seven percent were female. The results reflect only the opinions of those who chose to participate. About Yahoo! Yahoo! Inc. is a leading global Internet brand and one of the most trafficked Internet destinations worldwide. Yahoo! is focused on powering its communities of users, advertisers, publishers, and developers by creating indispensable experiences built on trust. Yahoo! is headquartered in Sunnyvale, California.