Summer is officially here, which means longer days and warmer weather. It’s either the busiest time of year (especially if you have kids) or a time that forces us to slow down. Either way, you can benefit from using your PTO this summer.
Using your PTO doesn’t only mean taking time off; it can be converting your unused PTO into causes that benefit you, such as offsetting the cost of your vacation or learning a new skill. So if you’re looking at making the most of the next few months, here are five ways to use your PTO this summer.
Book a vacation
Millions of Americans are taking to the skies this summer and traveling like it’s 2019. But high travel prices are deterring people from taking a vacation. So instead of using your PTO to take time off for vacations, you can use it to book. If you have a stockpile of unused PTO, consider converting it to cash and using it to book airfare, hotels, rental cars, and even cruises.
Implement “Summer Fridays”
Born out of the “Mad Men” advertising days, more companies are implementing “Summer Fridays” during the summer. With Summer Fridays, employees let their employees end their week early in the summer to take advantage of the nice weather. You can make your Summer Friday schedule if your employer hasn’t jumped on the bandwagon. Simply use your PTO to treat yourself to a three-day weekend. Now’s the time to take advantage of a quieter and less busy office as more employees take time off over the next few months.
Volunteer
Many companies offer volunteer time off (VTO) programs where employees can take time off work to contribute to their communities. Employers can select time and organizations or leave it up to the employee. They can also offer some allocated days for volunteering. You can donate your PTO to charities. Depending on your company’s VTO program, they might match your donation.
Expand your skillset
If you have a slower schedule this summer, consider expanding your skill set. Many companies offer continuing education benefits for employees, whether it's to get a degree, a certificate, or take some classes on LinkedIn Learning or MasterClass. However, if your company doesn’t offer a continuing education benefit, use your unused PTO to pay for it. Convert your unused PTO to cash to cover the cost of classes or tuition. That way, you can learn the skills you need to get ahead in your career at a little to no cost to you.
Take a break
We’ll just say it: It’s been a rough couple of years. We’re all tired, burnt out, and deserve a break. Taking time off is essential for our mental and physical health. When you take time off, you reduce the chance of depression, gain better sleep habits, and reduce the risk of heart disease and mortality. Detaching from work makes us more energetic and resilient. It also boosts our productivity and the company's bottom line. Using PTO isn't just for taking a vacation but simply for rest. Whether you do that on a beach halfway across the world or from the comfort of your couch, the key is doing whatever you need to feel recharged.
Learn more about how PTO Exchange makes it easier for you to take advantage of your PTO this summer.
Published on Jun 02, 2023 by Josh Reinhard
