What Really Causes Employee Burnout
and How to Address It
Did you know that one in four employees report experiencing some form of toxic behavior at work? That's right, and it's a bizarre fact that toxic workplace behavior is more common than we might think. So, what exactly is toxic workplace behavior, and how does it contribute to employee burnout? Let's dive in.
Toxic Workplace Behavior: The Silent Burnout Culprit
Toxic workplace behavior is a big predictor of burnout symptoms and the intention to leave your job. But it's not about the specific actions themselves; it's about how these actions make employees feel. Toxic behavior is anything that leads to employees feeling unvalued, belittled, or unsafe. This can include unfair treatment, noninclusive behavior, sabotage, cutthroat competition, abusive management, and unethical conduct from colleagues or leaders.
The Cost of Burnout to Employers
Burnout isn't just a personal struggle; it also hits employers hard. Research shows that burnout leads to costly organizational problems, such as attrition, absenteeism, lower engagement, and decreased productivity. The Great Attrition, driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, has made these costs more visible than ever.
Employees who experience burnout symptoms are six times more likely to consider leaving their jobs. This can result in costly turnover, which may cost up to two times an employee's annual salary. Additionally, higher rates of sick leave and absenteeism are associated with burnout, further impacting the organization's performance.
Addressing Burnout: What's Been Done and Why It's Not Enough
Many organizations have implemented wellness programs, offering perks like yoga classes, meditation apps, or well-being days. While these are valuable efforts, they often focus on treating the symptoms of burnout rather than tackling the root causes. The lack of baseline measurements makes it hard to gauge their effectiveness.
Some employers also invest in training employees to become more resilient. While adaptability is essential, it can't fully compensate for toxic workplace behaviors. Shifting the burden to adaptable employees is not a long-term solution; they are also more likely to leave if subjected to high levels of toxic behavior.
A Better Way Forward
The key to addressing burnout lies in eradicating toxic workplace behaviors and targeting the root causes. Identifying and eliminating these insidious behaviors will lead to a healthier work environment and, ultimately, greater job satisfaction and retention.
As we move forward, it's essential for organizations to prioritize a holistic approach, not just band-aid solutions. Understanding and addressing the toxic behaviors that breed burnout will benefit both employees and employers.
So, the next time you encounter a bizarre fact about toxic workplace behavior, remember that it's not just strange – it's a significant contributor to employee burnout. Let's work together to create healthier, happier workplaces for all.