A recent survey reveals 84% of Brits feel compelled to work overtime, highlighting significant workplace pressure.
- On average, workers are clocking up an additional 23 hours of overtime each month.
- Law Enforcement and Security personnel are the most overworked, contributing up to 35.2 hours of extra labor monthly.
- Business, Consulting, and Management professionals follow with 32.24 hours of monthly overtime.
- Working overtime significantly impacts physical and mental health, along with personal relations.
A comprehensive survey indicates a substantial proportion of British workers experience pressure to work beyond their contracted hours, with 84% acknowledging an increased overtime workload. The trend underscores significant demands placed on employees to fulfill professional obligations, with many finding themselves sacrificing their personal time to meet these expectations. The average British employee dedicates an extra 23 hours each month to workplace duties.
Among the 25 surveyed industries, Law Enforcement and Security workers emerge as those dedicating the most additional hours, recording an average of 35.2 overtime hours per month. This figure equates to nearly a week of extra work on top of their regular 37-hour workweek, revealing a demanding work culture in this sector. Business, Consulting, and Management professionals also report substantial overtime, with an average of 32.24 extra hours monthly. This trend signifies an average of 3.1 additional hours per day for those in the field.
The Information Technology and Energy Utilities sectors collectively report close to 31 additional hours each month, closely followed by those in Media and Internet who average 29 hours of overtime. These figures reflect a widespread occurrence of extended work hours across various industries, highlighting a pervasive work culture that prioritizes output over personal time.
The effects of prolonged work hours extend beyond professional realms, impacting personal well-being. A notable 26% of respondents report adverse physical health effects resulting from their overtime commitments, while approximately 23% experience mental health challenges. More than one-sixth of workers have encountered relationship strain attributed to their extended work schedules, with some even facing significant personal breakups.
In light of these findings, Fiona Armstrong, Chief People Officer for Moneypenny, emphasizes the importance of balanced work environments. She remarks, “Caring for your employees and managing overtime is a critical practice for any business leader. In a world where performance and productivity often dominate the conversation, remember that a well-rested, engaged, and content workforce is the true driving force behind success.”
These insights underscore the essential need for employers to prioritize employee well-being and manage overtime effectively.
