Despite threat of Omicron, almost 40% of workers intend to take Christmas off, just to make up for last year

 The current advice from the Government to carry on with Christmas plans, will come as welcome news to UK professionals, according to the latest survey from the UK’s leading independent job board, CV-Library.  

Just over 50% of UK workers are planning to take time off this Christmas and 38.5% of those are doing so purely to make up for spending last Christmas in lockdown. These workers want to make the most of the festivities and spend time with family, friends and loved ones, having been denied in 2020.  

Of the 2,000 respondents, 74% reported that they are not offered any incentive to work over the Christmas period and 55% admit they really do not enjoy working at this time. CV-Library went on to ask what the pros and cons of working over the Christmas period were and can exclusively reveal: 

Worst things about working over Christmas (based on top 3 answers) 

1. 77% Missing out on spending time with family and friends 
2. 22% Missing out on Christmas parties 
3. 22% Having to stay in the festive spirit, even though you’d rather be at home 
4. 20% Irritable/stressed customers and clients 
5. 17% Working longer hours 

Best things about working over Christmas (based on top 3 answers) 

1. 40% Christmas bonuses 
2. 33% Christmas music 
3. 28% A more relaxed working environment 
4. 25% Staff social events 
5. 23.4% Jolly customers 

Another thing that has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic is the popular tradition of Secret Santa. Only 27% of professionals say they will be playing the game in their workplace this year, with 23% admitting they did used to, but have stopped since the onset of the pandemic. 

Lee Biggins, Founder and CEO of CV-Library said 

“With Christmas effectively cancelled in 2020, many want to celebrate and make the most of the festivities but, for numerous businesses, the Christmas period is the busiest and has a significant impact on annual profits. This year more than ever.”  

Biggins continues: 

“Profits are vital, but a balance is required. The commitment and efforts of staff are key to success, and acknowledgment of this has never been more crucial. With staff retention a big issue, and much movement predicted for the 2022 job market, staff need to feel appreciated, motivated, and able to enjoy the festive period this year, where possible.”