Workplace burnout is a serious issue facing organizations today. An estimated 1 in 5 workers report feeling burnt out at work, and the World Health Organization has even classified burnout as an occupational phenomenon.
Left unchecked, workplace burnout can lead to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and turnover. So, what can organizations do to prevent workplace burnout?
Here are five evidence-based strategies:
1. Encourage Breaks
Although it may seem counterintuitive, one of the best ways to avoid workplace burnout is to encourage employees to take breaks. When employees are feeling overwhelmed or stressed, taking a break can help them refocus and come back to their work with fresh eyes.
However, it's important that employees feel like they have the freedom to step away from their work when they need to; otherwise, they may not take advantage of this strategy.
2. Promote Work-Life Balance
Another way to prevent workplace burnout is to promote a healthy work-life balance for employees.
This means creating policies and procedures that allow employees to manage their time in a way that works for them. For example, flexible scheduling or working-from-home options can help employees better balance their work and personal lives. Moreover, providing access to mental health resources can also go a long way in preventing workplace burnout.
3. Foster a Culture of Appreciation
In any organization, it's important that employees feel appreciated for their hard work.
One way to do this is by publicly recognizing employee accomplishments, whether it's through an email blast or a company-wide announcement.
Encouraging appreciation in the workplace has numerous benefits. Employees who feel appreciated are more likely to be engaged and motivated. A culture of appreciation can also lead to increased collaboration and creativity.
You could also consider instituting an employee of the month program or hosting regular team-building events. Whatever you do, make sure your appreciation is genuine and authentic—employees can see right through insincere flattery.
4. Encourage Open Communication
Open communication is essential for preventing workplace burnout.
Employees should feel like they can openly share their thoughts and concerns with supervisors without fear of reprisal.
Furthermore, supervisors should make themselves accessible to employees and provide regular feedback—both positive and constructive. By fostering open communication channels, you can identify potential problems early on and address them before they lead to workplace burnout.
5. Invest in Employee Development
Finally, investing in employee development is another great way to prevent workplace burnout. When employees feel like they're learning and growing in their roles, they're more likely to be engaged with their work—and less likely to experience workplace burnout.
There are many different ways you can invest in employee development, such as offering tuition reimbursement or providing access to online learning resources like Lynda or Skillshare. By investing in your employees' development, you'll not only prevent burnout but also end up with a more skilled and prepared workforce overall.
Workplace burnout is a serious problem facing organizations today—but it doesn't have to be inevitable!
If you’re feeling burned out, you’re not alone and there are ways to help you and your employees out.
By taking steps to encourage breaks, promote work-life balance, foster a culture of appreciation, facilitate open communication, and invest in employee development, you can create an environment that minimizes the risk of workplace burnout.
Implementing even just one or two of these strategies can make a big difference in preventing workplace burnout. So what are you waiting for? Get started today!
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Interested in more content regarding managing workplace burnout? Read my blog on the 4 Ways to Create a Mentally Healthy Workplace here.