Five ways to make the most of a sabbatical

Sabbaticals are getting common across industries, typically lasting for three months to a year. Employees must ensure sabbaticals do not harm their career.

1. Renew your Skills

If the employee uses sabbaticals to learn new skills and keep the manager in the loop, a post could be identified for him or her. “Sabbaticals are terrific if you want perspective. They help in exploring new avenues,” says Abhijit Bhaduri, chief learning officer, Wipro.

2. Take One at Any Age

The corporate world allows sabbaticals even if the employee has been in the job for four to five years. According to Bhaduri, many in the top brass also use this time to complete a course, write a book and come back to senior positions without a glitch.

3. Keep the Connections Intact

An employee on sabbatical must never lose touch with his or her team. A sabbatical should be taken after a discussion on goals, career path and how the employee will benefit. He or she should be aware of whether the time off will impact the appraisal so there are no grievances against the manager or organisation.

4. Discover New Opportunities

The break can be used to understand if one is suited to the job or wants to pursue another career, says Bhaduri. The security of a job will help the employee realise the trigger and make a shift if need be.

5. Keep Employers Posted

Those who have opted for a sabbatical to do volunteer work, learn a different trade or a skill should keep the employer posted on their progress. “In case of tough times, the employee is prepared,” says SM Gupta, global chief people officer, Aegis.