Although the term burnout has actually been around since the 1970s, in the last 2 years it’s really started to become an issue for people in the workplace. 602,000 workers reported that they were suffering from work-related stress in 2018/19 according to The Health and Safety Executive Organisation.
The rise in technology means everyone can now connect to the internet pretty much anywhere, which has increased the demand for flexible working. However as more and more people are starting to work from home, this is making it harder for them to know when to stop working.
As a leader, how can you solve this problem?
If your business allows flexible working, you need to ensure your employees aren’t overworking themselves. However, systems like Skype and WhatsApp can support this, as being able to video call or direct message your employees will help you keep track of people and ensure requirements are being met.
If you are a good leader, you need to be flexible in your approach to supporting the business and your employees. We have touched on some things below that could help to improve your employee’s behaviour and stress, if you are already doing these things then that’s great, but it’s important you are doing them to the best of your ability.
Take a Vacation
According to Direct Gov, full-time workers in the UK are legally entitled to 5.6 weeks or 29 days paid holiday a year (including bank holidays). However, according to the telegraph, a third of people in the UK don’t use all of their holiday, and in most cases lose up to 5 days a year. You need to encourage your employees to take their entitled holidays, as this is going to help them to relax. If they never have time away from work how are your employees going to maintain their standard of work?
If you have employees that need to work on computers every day, you need to ensure they are also taking regular breaks every day so they can stay refreshed and focused throughout the week. Although it is not a legal requirement to do so, it is recommended, according to The Health and Safety Executive.
Suggest Different Responsibilities
If you can see an employee is suffering from stress or burnout, be proactive and see how you can support them. Communication is key, so set up a meeting to discuss any issues they may be having and if they do need support, this is a good opportunity to openly discuss options for them.
If their workload is too much, the atmosphere in their team is an issue or if they are just generally unhappy in their role, being proactive will show that you care and that you want to invest time into their wellbeing.
For some tips on how you can support a member of staff that is under stress, click here.
Make Work More Fun or Interesting.
Encourage your employees to set up social events, as this will create a better working environment where people can have a break and socialise. Giving your employees an afternoon off occasionally will give them something to look forward too. And if they are on schedule and work isn’t too hectic, then doing so shouldn’t cause any issues.
Here are some popular choices for social events at work:
Summer Party
Christmas Party
Seasonal Days – Pancake Day, Halloween etc.
Charity Work - McMillian Coffee Morning
There is a lot of pressure to succeed in today’s society. Last year it was recorded by the Mental Health Foundation that 74% of UK adults said they have felt stressed at work. As a business, it is important that you have procedures in place to support your employees if they are struggling.
Yes, they are there to do a job, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t receive support whilst working. If people are overworked and not offered support, it is only going to have a negative impact on yourself and your business. So it is important to see the bigger picture and help people that matter.