Stress that develops from the workplace is a huge contributor to the stresses of life for many individuals. While companies generally need to evaluate their workplaces and help to make changes to decrease employee stress, it is important to remember that employees are individuals and while some might be stressed by certain situations others may not view those situations as stressful.
Unclear Expectations
Clarity and feedback is extremely important. When it does not happen, stress increases. Feedback helps employees maintain clear expectations and an understanding of their role. According to the Mayo Clinic, lack of clarity in expectations and role definition will cause an increase in job stress.
Poor Communication
Lack of communication can be very detrimental to the employee. Lack of transparency can cause employees to question what is expected of them and whether or not they are meeting the company's goals. The Help Guide puts forth the idea that positive and clear communication is essential to a decrease in workplace stress.
Fear of Job Loss
Employees understand the importance of retaining a job. According to the non-profit mental health information website Help Guide, constant wondering about job loss is common. This fear can become significantly more stressful if they feel they are not meeting company standards because no one has provided them with feedback.
Workload
According to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, "the combination of high demands in a job and a low amount of control over the situation can lead to stress." Heavy workloads and unrealistic deadlines can cause significant amounts of stress. Individual employees can feel rushed and inadequate to meet their goals.
Powerlessness
Powerlessness plays a huge role in stress found within the workplace. According to the American Psychological Association, individuals who feel powerless are hopeless about improving their jobs; thus, giving into the status quo and unwilling to make alterations.
Lack of Direction
The Mayo Clinic suggests that when an employee's job is ambiguous or they have no clear direction their stress levels can increase. Ambiguous job's leave employees to constantly wonder if they are accomplishing the goals and tasks they were hired to complete. This lack of clarity generates stress.
Lack of Recognition
The Help Guide reports that lack of recognition or rewards can fuel workplace stress. One of the best actions a supervisor can take is to appreciate employees. Appreciation should not only occur on a certain day; it should be a regular genuine "thank you" by supervisors whenever it is warranted.
Leadership
Leadership can be a huge cause of stress in the workplace. According to the Mayo Clinic, having a boss who micromanages can lead to increased workplace stress. It is essential that leaders take into consideration how their actions or lack of action is interpreted by employees. Leaders need to be seen as appreciative and confident in their employees. If they do not, the chances are high that they will inadvertently create more workplace stress.
References
- Help Guide: Stress at Work: How to Reduce and Manage Workplace and Job Stress
- Mayo Clinic:Job burnout: Know the signs and symptoms
- Help Guide: Preventing Burnout Signs symptoms, causes, and coping strategies
- American Psychological Association: Stress in the Workplace
- Candian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety: Workplace Stress
