In today’s fast-paced and demanding work environment, burnout has become a prevalent issue that can greatly impact both employees and organisations alike. Gallup’s State of the Workplace 2023 report found that although the world has recovered from the worst of the pandemic, employee stress remained at a record-high level, with 44 percent employees saying they experienced a lot of stress the previous day. Similarly, a Future Forum Pulse report found that burnout is on the rise globally, with 42 percent of the workforce reporting burnout, an all-time high since May 2021 when Future Forum started measuring burnout.
By recognising the causes and symptoms of burnout, organisations and leaders can take proactive measures to create a supportive work culture that fosters employee engagement and satisfaction, in turn retaining top talent and ensuring productivity levels.
Understanding burnout and its impact on productivity
Burnout is more than just feeling exhausted or overwhelmed; it is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress.
Burnout can show in various ways, physically, emotionally and mentally. Physical indications include chronic fatigue, headaches, and insomnia, while emotional ones may comprise feelings of cynicism, irritability, and a lack of motivation, among others. People suffering from burnout may also have difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and a decline in decision making abilities.
When employees experience burnout, their productivity and performance suffer, leading to decreased engagement and increased turnover rates.
Warning signs to watch out for
Recognising the warning signs of burnout is essential for identifying at-risk employees and preventing further decline in productivity. While the signs of burnout may vary from person to person, there are several common indicators that employers should be aware of.
One of the most apparent signs of burnout is a noticeable decline in performance. Employees who were once highly productive and engaged may start missing deadlines, submitting subpar work, or exhibiting a lack of enthusiasm for their tasks. Additionally, increased absenteeism or frequent sick leaves can be a red flag for burnout.
Another common warning sign is a shift in attitude or behaviour. Burnout can lead to feelings of cynicism, detachment, and negativity towards work. Employees may become more irritable, easily frustrated, or show signs of disengagement such as avoiding social interactions or isolating themselves from colleagues.
Strategies for preventing burnout in the workplace
Burnout may seem a personal struggle, but it can have a big impact on people and organisations. Some measures that organisations can take to prevent burnout and foster positive employee engagement are:
Promote work-life balance: Encourage employees to prioritise their well-being by establishing clear boundaries between work and personal life. Implement flexible work arrangements, such as hybrid work schedules or flexible hours, to allow employees to better manage their responsibilities both professionally and personally.
Provide opportunities for rest and rejuvenation: Emphasise the importance of taking breaks and vacations to recharge. Encourage employees to disconnect from work during non-working hours and support their efforts to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Foster a supportive work culture: Create an environment where open communication, trust, and collaboration are encouraged. Build strong relationships with employees and provide resources for them to seek help and support when needed.
Recognise and appreciate achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate employees’ accomplishments to boost morale and motivation. Regularly provide feedback and recognition for their contributions, helping them feel valued and appreciated.
Offer professional development opportunities: Support employees’ growth and career aspirations by providing training programmes, mentorship, and access to skills development. This not only enhances their job satisfaction but also increases their sense of purpose and engagement.
Conclusion
Unmasking burnout and addressing its warning signs is essential for organisations to retain top talent and boost productivity. By understanding the causes and symptoms of burnout, organisations can proactively implement strategies to prevent burnout and create a supportive work environment, retaining their top talent, enhancing productivity, and driving organisational success.
By Melissa Norman, Founder and Managing Director of Aisling Group
