What is a sabbatical leave?

A sabbatical leave is a career break, usually between one and three months, that enables employees to pursue personal goals, reflect, and rejuvenate. Stemming from the old testament word, Shabbat, the weekly seventh day of rest, sabbaticals are not a new concept.

Why should HR leaders care about sabbaticals?

A sabbatical is a highly-desirable benefit; it offers precious free time to engage in activities that a full-time job may prevent employees from pursuing. Providing paid sabbaticals might seem pricey. Yet when employees step up to fill in for their colleagues, the transition can be seamless and the cost negligible. Moreover, empowering team-members to assume collective responsibility for a colleague on sabbatical deepens their knowledge while boosting camaraderie and loyalty.

How do sabbaticals improve company culture?

Sabbaticals provide an oasis for employees to disconnect from years of stress and reconnect to themselves. Taking time off for self-care, and helping colleagues do the same, can nurture employee wellbeing and strengthen interpersonal relationships. Investing in employees’ health is a way of reinvesting in the company, resulting in a happier workforce and a healthier company culture.

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