Here’s Why Leaders Should Avoid Calling Subordinates When They’re Off Duty

I did too!

Sure are. When I worked in manufacturing, I got called at home all the time.

It goes without saying that getting constant phone calls, often time for very trivial things or "for your situational awareness" as the article says, definitely wear down on a person. I see my work number pop up and my mood instantly drops. I feel my very finite liberty has been interrupted and poisoned. The same people who are called me for 3 days a week, just longer hours, and because they are on a watch rotation we are not able to call them after hours.. I've never read any instruction anywhere that requires me to have a phone or have it on 24/7.. it is one of those "by word of mouth" type deals. However, I have received counseling because during the weekend, at 0200, I did not pick up my phone to answer a phone call. Turns out, the phone call was trivial, yet I still was counseled over it.. This is bad leadership in my mind. If something happens that affects the mission and need immediate attention, or something directly pertains to you, then absolutely - you need to be informed and you should be expected to be available for contact. However, your average day servicemember should not have their finite liberty interrupted.. The military population in general already walk around with enough stress.. they need time to relax. Liberty and leave should not be interrupted unless for emergencies.

You are very welcome!