Uncertainty was a defining characteristic of 2020, and with it came it record-high levels of burnout. Failing to address burnout is costly for both individuals and organizations. In 2019, burned-out employees were 2.6 times as likely to be looking for other employment. Researchers also estimate that workplace stress accounts for 8% of the national budget in healthcare. Whereas most people understand that burnout is a state of emotional, physical, or mental exhaustion, many business leaders use flawed methods to identify it in their employees.
Do You Know Burnout When You See It?
Managers, look out for these warning signs.
January 28, 2021
Illustration by Nia Winslow
Summary.
While burnout isn’t a new problem, the ongoing crises of 2020 made it worse, and it’s following us into 2021. Burnout can take many forms, and the wellness surveys many companies use to identify it overlook the more active forms, such as erosive behaviors, impatience, and incivility. Managers need to understand the subtle warning signs of burnout so they can take steps to mitigate it before it’s too late. Once identified, managers can get creative about how to relieve some of the pressure on their burned-out employees and work collaboratively with them to understand what they need.
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New!
HBR Learning
HBR Learning
Stress Management Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Stress Management. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
How to build resilience at work.