Stress awareness day - 5 ways to help staff avoid burn out

02.11.2022
Claire Moore
Human Resources
Claire Moore HR Adviser for Lovewell Blake

Whilst we all encounter stress in our daily lives, continual high levels of stress can lead employees to feeling exhausted and burnt out.

Claire Moore HR Adviser for Lovewell Blake

An employee’s engagement, performance and mood can be substantially impacted when experiencing/ongoing stress in the workplace. High stress levels in the workplace can also lead to lengthy periods of sickness absence and could negatively impact the retention of staff members. Below are some ways in which you can help your teams avoid experiencing burnout.

1. Ensure staff are taking breaks

Managers should encourage their team members to take breaks as well as reminding them of the importance of taking some time away from their desks. When workload is high it can be tempting to work constantly throughout the day, however taking a break away from work is proven to improve productivity. Ensure managers lead by example by not only encouraging team members to take breaks, but by making sure they are also taking them too.

2. Work planning

Speak to team members about their workload and upcoming deadlines on a regular basis and consider this information in relation to task allocation and resourcing. Make sure that your appraisal process allows for conversations which promote a two-way flow of feedback, listen out for any suggestions or concerns employees might raise about work factors which may be causing them stress.

3. Encourage staff to take holiday

Managers should look to encourage staff to be booking holiday to help avoid burnout. When staff are busy, they may feel deterred from booking time off, however it is essential they have time for rest and relaxation. Regularly check throughout the holiday year to identify anyone who may have a high percentage of their holiday entitlement left to take, actively embark in conversations regarding booking holiday and the benefits this has on their wellbeing.

4. Train team leaders/managers

Ensure your managers are trained to spot the signs of stress and to help reduce stress within their teams. Mental health training will help managers to recognise when a staff member may need support and what they can do to help them. Investing in the training of managers can improve the overall wellbeing of your team and also shows your organisations commitment to supporting employee wellbeing.

5. Signpost to support  

Aim to create a working environment where workers feel able to speak about any concerns they may have. It may be that you look to implement a wellbeing or mental health policy so workers know how to get support should they need it. Look to provide information signposting staff to where they can access support, such as their GP or NHS wellbeing services.

If you require assistance with managing workers and their health and wellbeing, including drafting policies or training line managers then please get in touch with the HR consultancy team.

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