If you could work from anywhere in the world, where would you choose?
At Genius Sports, our ‘workcation’ policy allows every member of staff to do just that for a month each year. The company-wide benefit has been extremely popular among employees, with over 250 people from across all functions taking advantage of this in 2024.
Here are some insights from five Geniuses who embraced the opportunity and described the perks they uncovered.
1. Connecting with colleagues
Brazil was the destination of choice for Ollie, a member of our Marketing team in London.
“It was fantastic to live and work in Brazil for an extended period of time,” he said of the experience. “I got a far better understanding of the country and its culture than if I was just visiting on holiday and it allowed me to explore more places.”
Ollie’s workcation also gave him the opportunity to catch up with Genius colleagues in Brazil and while on a subsequent trip to Colombia.
“Every day felt different, which kept me motivated and productive,” he continued. “It was great meeting up with Genius colleagues in São Paulo, who also helped me get tickets for a Corinthians game that evening, which was another amazing experience.”
2. Not missing a moment
Greg, Director of Operational Improvement, used his workcation to see his daughter compete in the NCAA Mid-American Indoor Track and Field Conference Championships.
“Visiting my daughter while balancing work allowed me to stay productive without missing out on valuable family time,” he said.
“It was a great reminder that work-life balance isn’t just about separation but also integration – being able to enjoy personal moments without compromising on professional responsibilities. Plus, trying out a new routine in a different setting was refreshing!
“Some of the small moments are the most memorable – the brief conversations throughout the day, quick meals together and meeting her friends. A big highlight was also seeing her compete in one of her major Track and Field competitions of the year. It turned what could have been just another workweek into something much more meaningful.”
3. Working from the other side of the world
Kedi from our Tallinn office took her workcation in sunny Australia, escaping winter to spend time with family based in the country.
Workcations don’t always come without their challenges, but Kedi described how she balanced family commitments to make the most of her trip: “I have a super energetic 3-year-old son who was initially a bit confused about his new routine, but with plenty of quality time with his grandparents, his uncertainty soon turned into pure joy.
“I loved that working European hours let me make the most of the day – soaking up the sun, enjoying brunches with family and catching up with friends before logging on for an ‘evening shift’.”
4. Mixing work and adventure
Jack’s workcation in Cape Town, South Africa, meant he could explore a new country with minimal disruption to his work pattern, as he explained: “Cape Town was two hours ahead of UK time when I was there. That meant I had time to explore the city, go out for a delicious breakfast or even hike Lion’s Head before starting work!”
Jack also had the opportunity to meet Genius colleagues in the country, all contributing to a positive workcation experience.
“I had my doubts about whether you should mix work and holiday, but it was a totally seamless, flexible experience,” he added. “The buzz of being in a new environment helped my productivity if anything. It exceeded my expectations and I’d love to do it again.”
5. Changing your work environment
For each of the three years since the policy was introduced, Danielle has spent her workcation at her family home in southern Spain, again providing a special opportunity to reconnect with loved ones.
“Living in London, away from my family and friends in Scotland means that any time I can spend with them is particularly special.
“Using our family home in Spain for workcation has allowed my dad, sister and nieces to fly over on the weekend to spend quality time together in the sun. Not to mention the effect the sun has on our wellbeing during the winter months in the UK!”
The only challenge? “Getting on the plane at the end!”
Our workcation policy at Genius is an opportunity to explore the world, experience new cultures, and give a new perspective to your work.
As Kedi, explained: “If you have the chance – take it! There’s no better time than now. The experiences, fresh energy and new ideas you gain from a workcation are truly unmatched.”
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