Work related stress is certainly apparent amongst employees. However, an increasing number of managers are suffering as a direct result of work related strain.
Overworked and Stressed
According to research by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), managers are constantly working more than their contracted hours. Out of the 1,037 individuals surveyed, an extra day was worked each week one average. This is equal to working 44.4 hours compared to the 37.3 contracted hours and over the course of a year, this can add an extra 43.8 days.
The increasing gap between contracted and actual hours is leading to significant work-related stress. The constant need to be present, staying ahead of competitors and continuous communications is preventing managers from switching off from their work lives. 59% of survey participants said that they frequently check their emails outside of work.
Well-Being Needs to be Prioritised
Because of their mental health suffering, more managers are taking time off. During 2017, one in ten head staff took time off for mental health reasons for an average of 12 days. If managers are suffering as a direct result of their work, they need to be able to recover so that they can function as effective leaders in the long term. As a result, CMI is urging senior employers of businesses to make the well-being of their employees a priority.
Reducing the stress levels of employees can significantly boost productivity amongst the work force. Supporting business leaders as they are working will create a more positive working experience, thereby improving the quality of their working life and directly benefiting the business overall.
Stress Reduction Ideas
- Empower the workforce
Recognising the efforts of employees and rewarding accordingly will make them feel valued. Furthermore, supporting their personal and professional development will allow them to flourish in their work environment whilst also improving productivity. This should apply to both senior employers and managers.
- Keep work life away from personal life
Avoid anything work related, if possible, during personal hours. The moment that work is over, it needs to be left behind so that employees can properly switch off. Keep work related communication to a minimum by only answering urgent emails.
- Develop better line managers
Senior employers need to develop mangers’ skills to empower and engage their employees. Additionally, new managers need to be trained appropriately so that they can lead effectively.
- Wellbeing needs to be prioritised at work
Managers and employees need to be encouraged to talk openly about their mental health. By doing so, it tackles stigma of discussion and enables issues to be dealt with early on.
