If you’ve noticed a change for the worse in some of your best employees, burnout could be the issue. A lack of engagement, bad attitude and decreased quality of work are warning signs these people need your attention.
It’s possible they haven’t quite reached the brink of burnout, but it’s on the horizon. Here are a few tips to make the positive changes they need right now.
Best Ways to Help Employees Avoid Burnout
- Emphasize project purpose
- Keep a close watch on each person’s workload
- Make using all PTO mandatory
- Recognize each person’s contributions
1. Emphasize Project Purpose
Employees work to earn a living, but that’s not the only thing that keeps them going. If they feel like the tasks they’re assigned to have no real value, it’s bound to eventually weigh them down. Help find purpose by clearly explaining the overarching goal attached to each project. When they’re able to see how their work ties into the greater good, they’ll feel like they’re really doing something that matters.
2. Keep a Close Watch on Each Person’s Workload
Overwhelming employees with an outsized workload can easily push them toward burnout. Meet with each team member regularly to go over the tasks they’re currently assigned to and make sure they’re not in over their head. As the boss, it’s your job to monitor the amount of work each person has on their plate. If you find they’re over capacity, delegate some of their tasks to another employee.
3. Make Using All PTO Mandatory
It’s not uncommon for employees to leave some of their PTO untouched, because they’re either too busy or feel like they’ll be judged for taking time away from the office. Put an end to this by requiring every single person to use up every last hour of their PTO. Getting away from the office will allow people to relax and recharge, which will help keep burnout at bay.
4. Recognize Each Person’s Contributions
Your employees work hard, so if their efforts are never — or rarely — acknowledged, it will take an emotional toll. The best workers don’t want or need constant praise; however, when they do something outstanding, it’s important to call them out. Knowing the boss is paying attention and is pleased with their work will make them feel appreciated, which is key.
How to Help Employees Recover From Burn Out
It’s possible some employees are already in a state of burnout. If this is the case, it’s important to talk to the person to see what’s going on. The underlying issues must be addressed, so you can make positive changes that will help them break out of this rut.
For example, if they’re feeling discouraged because working long hours is keeping them away from their family, lighten their workload so they’re able to enjoy a greater sense of balance.
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