Workplace stress is not new. But it is becoming big business.

As workplaces become more demanding, competitive activity is increased in the global economy and there is increased pressure on individuals and teams to perform, stress and workplace tension are increasing.

And they’re killing many of us.

Causes of Workplace Stress

They include: A power and blame-based Organisational culture, ineffective leadership, workplace relationships steeped in conflict, ongoing change within the company or industry, trauma (such as the death of a colleague at work), too much work for the role, isolation, job insecurity, boring work, micromanaging, lack of resources to perform the role well and a lack of support.

Stress at work is getting worse

Researchers at The American Institute of Stress have identified that workplace stress is the major source of stress for workers in major countries around the globe and it has progressively escalated over the past few decades.

This ongoing perception of having greater demands placed on them with little control has resulted in workers experiencing increased rates of heart attack, hypertension and death.

In some areas in America (New York is an example) the relationship between job stress and heart attacks is so well acknowledged, that any police officer who suffers a coronary event on or off the job is assumed to have a work related injury and is compensated accordingly. (Source: http://www.stress.org/workplace-stress)

Workplace Stress:  A Leadership/Management Issue

Whilst the consequences of stress are felt and manifested down the line and throughout the whole Organisation, the responsibility for creating and providing safe and enjoyable workplaces lie at the door of the leaders, regardless of the level at which they sit in a company.  But undoubtedly the buck stops at the top!

Many Organisations believe that ‘hard work and no play’ is the way to go, but research indicates that this draconian way of leading will result in affecting companies negatively.

People burn out, get sick, lose the zest they once had for their job (if they had it!) and productivity goes out the door.

Presenteeism

Defined as ‘the practice of being present at one’s place of work for more hours than is required, especially as a manifestation of insecurity about one’s job.’

Presenteeism occurs when people come to work to get the bare minimum done, but they are not truly emotionally or mentally engaged in their work.

They are tired and zoned out.  And it’s costing company owners money.  A lot!

Conclusion

Watch out for Workplace Stress.  It can kill or at best, make you unwell.

For leaders and Organisations, it is your responsibility to provide a safe environment where your people will work well.  To not do this is both neglectful and illegal.
Caryn Walsh is an International Business Consultant, Executive Coach, Keynote Speaker. Do you have a question about your team or business.  Write to us at info@puremagicbusiness.com.au.  We will gladly answer it.