Your DIY Guide to Overcoming Employee Burnout
By Alison Porter
We have all heard the phrase, “employee burnout,” especially after what we faced in 2020 and continue to face in 2021. However, what does the phrase mean? According to the World Health Organization, burnout is "a syndrome conceptualized as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed" (Estrada, 2021).
Now more than ever, this topic is one that management should consider when overseeing the productivity of employees. According to a March Gallup report, 76% of employees experience burnout on the job at times. Because people are already spending so much time at home, not as many employees are taking time off work to rest or regroup. New evidence found in a Robert Half survey suggests employees may be experiencing something called video call fatigue. Therefore, Human Resources departments and managers should be actively monitoring the mental health of their employees.
There are several strategies we recommend to assist with staff check-ins, such as distributing pulse surveys, creating and utilizing a burnout survey, conducting check-in meetings, promoting an open-door policy, and implementing employee assistance programs. In addition, discussing employee wellness may be appropriate during performance reviews. However, it is important to realize that company culture may need to change, which means leaders must model openness and a willingness to discuss their personal wellbeing.
A report conducted at the University of Southern California Marshall School of Business revealed employees’ morale will be uplifted if management takes the time to express gratitude for their work. More and more companies have started to adapt new concepts to combat burnout, and we highly suggest that your company considers doing the same! Some wellness ideas that other companies have implemented include virtual yoga/meditation sessions, providing access to mental health platforms or related apps, and offering virtual groups to promote social interaction. In fact, in 2020, JLM HR Consulting employees voluntarily participated in a weekly virtual mindful meditation guided by Dr. Gwendolyn Dorsey, a certified workplace mindfulness facilitator.
If your company is facing decreased employee motivation, focus, morale, or burnout and would be interested in assistance with new programs, JLM HR Consulting has your back! Visit our website or give us a call at (240) 408-5071.
Employee Resources:
Employee Burnout Remains A Major Concern For Employers
What to Do About Employee Burnout
How to Prevent Employee Burnout
5 Employee Stress Management Solutions in the Time of Coronavirus