Burnout is quite common in today’s workplace, and it’s likely that you or your employees will experience it at some point. However, there is hope – as a manager, you can help your employees avoid burnout by helping to balance things where you can.
To begin with, you should be aware of common burnout signs:
Common Signs of Employee Burnout
- Decreased productivity
- Inability to focus clearly
- Disengaged
- Increased negativity or constantly defying the system
- Increased absenteeism
Work-Related Causes of Burnout
Burnout is usually the direct result of something going on at work. If you notice the above signs in one of your employees, take the time to check in with them to listen to what they have to say. Depending on the person, hopefully they’ll share with you what it is that’s causing the burnout symptoms. A few common causes of work-related burnout include:
- An over-demanding workload
- Poor team morale or problems with a team member(s)
- Lack of leadership
- Lack of clarity regarding duties or objectives
- Unfair treatment
What Can Managers Do to Reduce Employee Burnout?
- Promote work-life balance: Flexible work schedules are one strategy for assisting employees in striking the correct balance between their personal and professional life. As a result, employees collaborate more with their managers to find the balance they need.
- Encourage employees to use vacation time: Create a culture that appreciates rather than resents employees who take time off. We all need breaks now and again!
- Monitor workloads: Check in with your staff regularly to see how they’re handling their current workload – they may be doing more than you know.
- Prioritize employee well-being: Create a wellness program to promote self-care with this purpose or helping employees feel better and find positive ways to manage stress.
- Encourage communication: Create an open door policy and encourage open communication, feedback, and discussion. Provided your sincerity, employees will feel more at ease addressing workplace complaints and questions.
- Lead by example: Model the behavior you want to see in your team to demonstrate positivity and understanding in the workplace.
- Offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAP): Provide the information and resources needed for your employees to reach out for assistance. By doing so, you’ll give your employees tools to manage their stresses if they don’t feel comfortable addressing it with you directly.
- Show appreciation: You can do this by increasing praise and recognition and maybe even giving a bonus here and there. Your employees will feel more appreciated, and as a result, they’ll have increased job satisfaction.
Are you looking to fill positions? Contact Arbor Associates today! Our recruiters are constantly sourcing qualified professionals who can make a difference.
