'Acknowledge the system': What should employers do to reduce burnout?

Employers are being encouraged to "acknowledge the system" for a more nuanced approach to fostering wellbeing and reducing burnout in the workplace.

As part of this approach, a new white paper from Frontier Software pointed out that simply offering mindfulness applications will not magically fix workloads that are beyond human capacity.

"Analyse and streamline workflows, delegate effectively, and promote realistic expectations," the paper read.

Employers should also re-evaluate the metrics that reward overwork and constant availability, according to Frontier Software.

"Move towards valuing output over presenteeism, prioritising quality over quantity, and implementing clear boundaries between work and personal time."

The company added that organisations should also create a culture where leaders prioritise employee well-being through actions and not just words.

"Encourage them to model healthy work habits, listen to concerns, and champion flexible work arrangements.”

The recommendations came as it pointed out that employers face a "deeper challenge" of addressing the systemic issues contributing to employee burnout and declining mental health in the hybrid work environment.

In fact, another paper from Telus Health found that 34% of Australian employees are finding it increasingly difficult to be motivated to do their work. Nearly half (47%) also said they feel mentally and/or physically exhausted at the end of their workday.

Read more about the challenges facing employers this year in this free white paper from Frontier Software.