Taking Monday off after an intense festival weekend is no unnecessary luxury for many young adults. Research shows that almost three-quarters of workers under the age of 30 try to keep the day after a major event free.
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Long festival days, little sleep and possible alcohol or drug use can take their toll on the next working day. Of the young adults surveyed, 52% expect to perform less well after a major event, but say the experience is worth it. Among all working people in the Netherlands, that figure is considerably lower at 36%.
Hungover at the office? Young adults would rather take a day off
More than a third of young adults (37%) have underestimated the impact of an event on their work performance at least once. For a smaller group, it even resulted in calling in sick. Nine percent have called in sick after an event, while 12% did so without disclosing the real reason, such as tiredness or a hangover.
Opinions differ on the responsibility of employers, according to research conducted by P1 Travel. Some 35% of young adults believe employers could be more understanding. Flexible starting times or the option to make up missed hours later are among the suggested solutions. At the same time, 72% believe employers should not have to make special allowances for employees attending a festival or concert.
Recovering after a festival: taking a day off is increasingly part of the plan
According to Kim van de Kasteele, partner in HR and employment law advisory at Moore DRV, responsibility lies with both parties. Employees are entitled to a private life, but they must also arrive at work fit and ready to perform. She says clear agreements and an open conversation about working hours, capacity and flexibility can prevent the issue from arising only when someone calls in sick.
A planned recovery day therefore appears to be becoming a standard part of festival preparations: tickets, transport, accommodation – and a day off afterwards.
Image courtesy of REBiRTH Festival
