Author: Prenal Gengan
With today’s demanding work environments, burnout has become one of the biggest challenges faced by employees in all industries. As much as employees can try to manage their stress levels, employers and HR should also assist employees in strategically preventing burnout before it worsens.
What is burnout?
Burnout is an ongoing feeling of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion caused by continuous stress specifically from work and increased responsibilities. Burnout occurs when stress continues for a prolonged period without ample rest, balance, or support.
It does not occur suddenly. Burnout evolves over time when an individual feels swamped with work and finds it difficult to keep up with their workload or demands. This causes a drop in employee productivity, increased employee turnover, and a lack of motivation, which leads to negatively impacting the performance in businesses.
Recognising early burnout is not the sole responsibility of an employee. It is a responsibility shared between employees, managers, and the HR team.
Early warning signs of burnout
- Continuously feeling fatigue and low energy
- Disengagement and no enthusiasm
- High absenteeism or withdrawal
- Decreased productivity or work quality
- Gloomy attitude including workplace relationships
The role of HR in preventing burnout
It is important for HR to create a work environment where burnout is minimised. When organisations focus on employee well-being, they often notice an increase in employee performance, engagement, and retention.
Ways in which employers or the HR team can assist employees:
- Proper planning of employee workload and workforce management
- Set and communicate clear policies and expectations
- Promote employee wellness initiatives
- Provide training for managers to notice signs of burnout
- Build a positive and supportive workplace culture
Burnout can have a drastic impact if ignored, however, with ongoing support and assistance, it can be prevented and managed. At HRTorQue, we assist businesses to create positive working environments by implementing practical HR strategies which support both employees and organisational goals. Email us today, and we will help your employees thrive, not just survive.