Handover of Work – By Danielle Whittaker

Why is handing over work important?

Handing over work in a company is essential, as the work still needs to be completed and if the person isn’t there to complete it, then another colleague will have to undergo these tasks. Not only will this help keep the company keep running smoothly but it will keep all the customers associated with the company happy and not cause any problems.

When does handover take place?

In a company, the hand over takes place when another colleague would be temporarily leaving for a period of time i.e. sick leave or maternity leave. The other colleague will then oversee their general duties and work to make sure it is still being completed until the colleague has returned.

What do you have to do to prepare for a handover:

If you are leaving your company temporarily, then you will need to plan what the other colleague will need to be doing while you are out of office. You may need to train the other colleague so that they can complete the same work you do, as some parts they may not know how to complete or feel confident in undertaking the task. You will have to gather up all the work you do daily and make sure it is all up to date so the other colleague can carry on where you left off. Depending on whether your job relies on customer interaction, you may need to hand over client information such as email addresses and phone numbers so that they can continue a correspondence in your absence.

Who would you hand over to?

If you were about to go on temporary leave you would hand over your work to a colleague that you work with who is capable and comfortable doing the job. If you work alone, then your manager may take over your work while you are on leave. All your work will be fulfilled while you are off and once you have returned,  you will start back in your role from where your colleague left.

Summary:

Going on temporary leave can be stressful for yourself, employer or even company as there is a lot that needs to be put in place before you leave to make sure everything runs smoothly. It is always the best course of action to plan ahead before you go and not leave it until the last minute. If you plan in enough time, you can train the other colleague up to the standard needed so the work can be done successfully. Planning ahead also means the colleague taking over isn’t under pressure with your work and will feel comfortable completing your tasks while you are away. Planning can also save you and your employer stress as you will both know your role is in safe hands.