In this blog post, we'll explore effective strategies for reducing burnout and promoting remote employee wellness.
Table of Contents
While remote work offers flexibility and convenience, it also presents unique challenges that can result in employee burnout
The challenges of remote work
While working from home has had a positive impact on millions of workers’ mental health and wellbeing, for many, there are still some negatives to this 'new normal’.
According to research by ThinkRemote, 86% of remote workers report experiencing burnout in their current positions, as opposed to 70% of in-person workers. While many employers may argue that working remotely contributes to a healthier work-life balance, many employees disagree. During the pandemic, 61% of remote workers found it difficult to ‘unplug’ after work, while over half of remote employees reported working more hours than they did in the office.
Additionally, a lack of social interaction can have an adverse effect on remote workers’ wellbeing. A Buffer report showed that remote workers’ number one struggle is staying home often without a reason to leave (21%), followed by loneliness (15%).
According to research by ThinkRemote, 86% of remote workers report experiencing burnout in their current positions, as opposed to 70% of in-person workers. While many employers may argue that working remotely contributes to a healthier work-life balance, many employees disagree. During the pandemic, 61% of remote workers found it difficult to ‘unplug’ after work, while over half of remote employees reported working more hours than they did in the office.
Additionally, a lack of social interaction can have an adverse effect on remote workers’ wellbeing. A Buffer report showed that remote workers’ number one struggle is staying home often without a reason to leave (21%), followed by loneliness (15%).
Strategies for reducing remote employee burnout
To combat remote employee burnout, employers should:
- Establish clear boundaries
- Promote work-life balance
- Foster clear communication
- Provide mental health resources
- Offer flexibility and autonomy
- Invest in professional development
- Lead by example
Let’s explore each of these in more detail.
Establish clear boundaries
Encourage employees to set boundaries between work and personal life by defining their specific work hours and designated workspace at homes. These simple frameworks can help to differentiate between work- and home-hours and allow employees to more easily switch off. It’s especially important for employees to disconnect from work-related communication outside of work hours to fully relax.
Promote work-life balance
Emphasise the importance of taking regular breaks, whether it’s to get some exercise, spend time with loved ones, or practice some simple self-care, like making a healthy lunch. All of these activities contribute to a richer remote-work experience, and are essential to keeping focused at work.
Foster communication and connection
Set up regular virtual meetings and check-ins with team mates to maintain connection and combat feelings of isolation. If you’re a manager, employ an open-door policy for your team to express concerns, share successes, and seek support when needed.
Provide resources for mental health support
Offer access to mental health resources such as counselling services, Employee Assistance Programs, and mindfulness workshops. It’s also important to start at the bottom by normalising conversations around mental health – encourage your employees to voice their concerns so you can promote a supportive and inclusive work culture.
Offer flexibility and autonomy
Remote work is all about autonomy, so it’s important to allow employees to shape their workday where possible. Allow employees to manage their schedules and workloads, and allow flexibility in how and when tasks are completed.
Invest in professional development
Virtual training sessions, workshops, and online courses can all offer remote employees the chance to invest in their future and progress their careers, demonstrating your commitment to their long-term career growth.
Lead by example
All of this advice should start at the top. As a manager or employer, you should model healthy work habits and prioritise your own wellbeing as a leader. Encourage work-life balance, take regular breaks, and demonstrate empathy and understanding towards your team members' challenges, so they can all feel like they’re on the same path.
By implementing strategies to reduce burnout and promote wellbeing, businesses can create a supportive and thriving remote work culture where employees can thrive both personally and professionally.
The best way to lead by example is to show your commitment to employee health – and that starts with great international health insurance. Provide your employees with access to private healthcare while abroad with Allianz Partners.
The best way to lead by example is to show your commitment to employee health – and that starts with great international health insurance. Provide your employees with access to private healthcare while abroad with Allianz Partners.
