In a commendable move, the dating app Bumble has announced a new initiative that grants its employees two additional weeks of paid vacation, allowing them to take this time off in segments throughout the year. This decision comes on the heels of a company-wide week off that was implemented by Founder and CEO Whitney Wolfe Herd in June, aimed at addressing the widespread burnout experienced by teams amid the pandemic. Bumble stated, “With rising vaccination rates and easing restrictions, we want to give our teams worldwide a chance to disconnect and focus on themselves for a week.”
Is it really that surprising to find an employer prioritizing the mental well-being of its workforce over profits? Bumble’s actions are a refreshing reminder that businesses can pause in an unyielding corporate landscape to ensure their most valuable assets—their employees—remain engaged and healthy. This initiative is just one of many impressive benefits offered to Bumble’s 700 employees globally.
Comprehensive Benefits for Employees
In addition to this generous vacation policy, Bumble provides paid “compassion leave,” paid time off for victims of violence or abuse, a minimum of 12 weeks per year to care for sick family members, and at least six months of paid leave for new parents through birth, surrogacy, or adoption. The company also allows for a flexible four-week transition period for caregivers returning to work after time away.
Post-pandemic, Bumble is empowering its employees to choose whether to work from home or return to the office, with the only stipulation being that they work from the country where they are employed. Bumble not only advocates for a healthy work-life balance but also equips its workforce with the necessary resources to achieve it. Tariq Shaukat, Bumble’s President, stated, “It became clear that the way we work—and need to work—has evolved, and our new policies reflect what truly matters in supporting our teams in both their professional and personal lives.”
The Need for Change in the U.S.
Where can I submit my resume? It’s astonishing that Bumble’s approach to employee care is so remarkable, setting a new standard that far surpasses the typical offerings most companies provide, especially in the U.S. It is disheartening that what should be the norm is often viewed as an extraordinary benefit.
The United States remains the only advanced economy without mandated paid vacation or family leave. On average, American workers clock in about 34.4 hours weekly and receive a mere 17 days of paid vacation each year. Many individuals find themselves overwhelmed with work-related stress, leading to burnout.
While it is understood that people must work to sustain themselves, it is unacceptable for companies to hold employees hostage with the threat of job loss or financial penalties if they cannot thrive in environments lacking paid time off or support for unpaid leave, which includes job security and benefits.
Employees shouldn’t have to wait until they’re physically or mentally incapacitated to take time off. Paid vacation days and leave policies function as preventive healthcare measures, enhance productivity, foster creativity, and improve morale—something Bumble clearly understands. The reality is that excessive work or toxic environments can lead to serious health issues.
In fact, medical expenses are the leading cause of bankruptcy in the U.S. Individuals need both income and health insurance to cover these costs. However, when employees are unable to work and lack supportive employers or insurance coverage, they face dire consequences.
Despite being the wealthiest nation, the U.S. grapples with significant wealth inequality. Those unaffected by financial struggles often perpetuate the myth that hard work alone will lead to success, disregarding the privilege and safety nets that support their journey.
Currently, the U.S. lacks universal healthcare and basic income guarantees to ensure security and meet citizens’ basic needs. The Biden administration has proposed universal basic income for children and plans for 12 weeks of paid medical and family leave, alongside a minimum of seven paid sick days.
The Impact of the Pandemic
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the challenges faced by self-employed individuals, gig workers, and freelancers. According to the Pew Research Center, approximately 16 million Americans are self-employed, representing about 30% of the workforce. Although I have been self-employed for over a decade, lacking paid sick leave or vacation days has made it challenging, yet I am fortunate to sometimes manage unpaid time or reduce my workload when necessary.
We should not have to rely on crises to secure basic protections. All employees deserve to be cared for by their employers. Bumble embodies an ideal model, but their exemplary practices should be seen as the standard rather than an exception.
Further Reading
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Summary
Bumble’s commitment to employee well-being, including two weeks of paid vacation and comprehensive leave policies, sets a high standard for workplace culture. The company’s actions highlight the importance of mental health and work-life balance, challenging the norm in the U.S. where such benefits are often lacking. As we move forward, companies should prioritize the well-being of their employees as a standard practice.
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