Message #62017

[raindance]

I arrange for an interim worker to take my place, as far as possible, during my absence.  A couple of members of the management team are delegated to take certain aspects of my work forward.  

Some work does pile up whilst I am away, but that's just how things go.  It all gets done in time with good planning.  

I leave specific, written instructions on how to progress the various elements of my work, and current projects, for my interim replacement.  The most important thing is to recruit the right person, and so I insist on seeing CVs beforehand and, if I have time, seeing the person.  OK, so I'm very particular, but I have had a couple of very bad experiences with people who came with good recommendations.  On the whole, though, I have had superb people.  

The most important thing, I think, when taking vacation is to plan the work beforehand.  I'm fairly ruthless with time management anyway, but pay extra close attention when it comes up to holidays.