After Hours: Checking in with work on weekends and evenings

There’s no clocking out for most chief information officers (CIOs), according to a recent Robert Half Technology survey. The vast majority (73 percent) of CIOs said they check in with work “often” or “somewhat often” on evenings and weekends. Only 14 percent said they never check in outside normal business hours.

For most CIOs, the job doesn’t end at the close of business. With weekend software deployments, and customers and end users around the world who require around the clock technical support, IT groups typically operate 24/7, and CIOs often need to be available if critical issues arise.  However, it’s beneficial for even the busiest IT professionals -- including CIOs -- to disconnect when possible. Taking a break from work allows technology leaders to recharge and approach their work with fresh perspectives.

Robert Half Technology offers four tips to limit after-hours work for CIOs and their teams:

1. Identify the ‘mosts.’ When every project seems to be top priority, focus efforts on those that will save the most money, grow the most revenue or open doors to the most new business. Encourage your staff to use this same approach to manage their time.
2. Be realistic about internal resources. Understand your staff’s workload, knowledge level and experience. Bringing in outside consultants to manage certain projects may result in faster execution and fewer errors.
3. Avoid micromanaging. Set milestones and regular check-ins, but otherwise let staff run initiatives when possible. Getting mired in details will slow the process and take away from everyone’s already limited time.
4. Practice the golden rule. Show respect for others’ schedules. Avoid planning meetings that, on closer inspection, aren’t necessary. Don’t keep staff waiting for feedback and approvals.