Vacationing CFOs stay in contact with office.

• Position: YOUR LIFE - Chief operating officers

Most financial executives may find it is too easy to stay connected to work while on vacation during the holidays. Some 74% of chief financial officers say they check in with the office at least once or twice a week during vacation; 34% maintain that they do so daily, according to a survey developed by Robert Half Management Resources, Menlo Park, Calif., a provider of senior-level accounting and finance professionals on a project and interim basis.

"For CFOs, job pressures build up year-round, and vacations often are delayed because of busy work periods and financial reporting schedules," explains Paul McDonald, executive director of Robert Half. "Even a brief respite can help executives recharge and refocus once they are back at the office."

However, "technology tools such as wireless e-mail devices, laptops, and cell phones make it easy to keep in touch with the office and are frequent companions for vacationing executives. They offer instant connectivity but prevent much-needed breaks from work."

McDonald offers several tips for executives who want to be accessible yet still enjoy plenty of rest and relaxation:

Designate point persons. Inform key parties well in advance of your upcoming absence and...