Hi there,
January will not end.
It’s still cold.
It’s so dark outside.
Which means… I’m day dreaming of a full week of vacation.
⚡ Supercharge of the Week
Remote Octopus recommends preparing for a week or more OOO in advance to ensure your cross-functional stakeholders can continue to move work forward while you recharge.
Your week-long vacation should not be a surprise to your cross-functional collaborators. If you pre-booked flights or a hotel, then it’s time to pre-book your OOO plan.
Most importantly, it’s key to communicate the exact dates that you will be out. Do not put up a palm tree Slack emoji and peace out. No one will know when (or if?) you’ll be back to help them work through a challenge or put out a fire.
☀️ Ideally, about a MONTH in advance:
Ensure your OOO time is reflected on your team calendar + your personal calendar (assuming it is approved through your company’s process).
Identify a point of contact for any questions while you are out + confirm they’re available to step in.
Start cross-checking timelines + project documentation to see if your OOO time conflicts with any key milestones or deliverables. Develop a backup plan if needed with your team.
Mention your upcoming OOO time on various 1:1s with close cross-functional collaborators to ensure it’s on their radar. Start socializing your time off.
Cross-check your calendar + confirm if you need support from anyone to step in + facilitate a project call for you. If so, reach out to request help.
⏳ The WEEK before you head out:
Drop a Slack status note that says ❗Upcoming OOO: 2/10 - 2/14
Remind folks on team and project calls that you’ll be OOO next week. Confirm specific dates + a point of contact for any questions. Let them know who might be stepping in to facilitate the call(s) while you are out. Document these details in the agenda for future reference.
If anyone is supporting you with facilitating a project call, prep the agenda(s) in advance + share with them. Double-check that existing video call links can be accessed with you (the call host) OOO.
✈️ The DAY before you head out:
Check in 1:1 with close collaborators + your manager that morning to see if there’s anything they need unblocked before you are OOO.
Ensure your calendar is up-to-date with OOO noted + call invites declined.
Set up an auto-reply email to share your specific OOO dates + a point of contact for any questions.
Update your Slack status note + auto reply message to share your specific OOO dates 🌴Upcoming OOO: 2/10 - 2/14
A few thoughtful steps before you head out to recharge will make a world of difference for your team’s productivity and collaboration.
👀 ICYMI
🐙 Remote Octopus Resources
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