Throughout my career, there have been many occasions where I’ve been required to work on a non-working day. And as part of management, I’ve also had to ask my team members to do the same.
Nobody particularly enjoys it, but sometimes business exigencies arise.
So here are some of the best practices that have worked for me:
🟪 Give as much notice as possible. Last-minute requests should only happen during genuine emergencies.
🟦 Explain the reason. People are more willing to help when they understand the business impact.
🟩 Be fair when selecting who needs to work. Don’t always rely on the same dependable people.
🟨 Compensate them properly. Whether it is overtime pay, replacement leave, allowances or any arrangement permitted by company policy and the law, make sure people are recognised fairly.
🟧 Leaders should show up too. Nothing frustrates employees more than being asked to sacrifice their weekend while decision-makers disappear.
🟥 Say thank you. Never treat extra effort as an entitlement.
Remember, it’s harder to get upset when your sacrifice is being treated as something extraordinary.
Plan properly, communicate early, and respect people’s time.
xoxoxo, AuntyHR
