The increasing use of mobile technology in the workplace is causing heightened stress levels among senior executives. This has raised significant concerns about employee well-being and productivity.
- A recent survey by Russam GMS revealed that 80% of senior executives find the workplace more stressful than five years ago.
- 75% of the respondents attribute this rise in stress to the pervasive use of mobile technology.
- The pressure to remain available and responsive outside of work hours is a major stress factor.
- Despite recognizing stress in their colleagues, most companies lack formal procedures to address workplace stress.
In today’s fast-paced business environment, the pervasive integration of mobile technology has become a double-edged sword. A survey conducted by Russam GMS indicates that 80% of senior executives perceive the workplace as more stressful compared to five years ago, with mobile technology being a significant contributing factor. The convenience and connectivity offered by these devices come at a cost, notably intensifying stress levels among employees, especially those in leadership roles.
A staggering 75% of senior executives have identified mobile technology as a primary source of stress. The expectation to be perpetually available and responsive, whether through emails or other communication platforms, has blurred the lines between work and personal life. This constant connectivity demands immediate attention and reaction, fostering a sense of relentlessness that exacerbates stress.
The challenge of disconnecting from work-related tasks during personal time is further compounded by expectations set by employers. The survey highlights that 60% of executives feel pressured to respond to work communications outside of standard office hours. This obligation not only infringes on personal time but also poses a significant hurdle in maintaining a healthy work-life balance, which is crucial for managing stress and ensuring overall well-being.
Despite the evident rise in stress levels, there remains a concerning lack of formal mechanisms within organizations to address this issue. While more than 80% of executives can recognize stress in their colleagues, only a minority of companies provide adequate resources or programs, such as stress counseling or mentoring, to assist employees in managing stress. Informal appraisal sessions, where stress may be casually discussed, are more common but insufficient for tackling the root causes of stress.
The implications of disregarding employee stress are far-reaching, affecting both individual health and organizational productivity. Ian Joseph, Managing Director of Russam GMS, underscores the gravity of this concern, pointing out how the perpetuation of a 24/7 work culture and the unbridled use of mobile technology hinder the ability to ‘switch off’ and profoundly contribute to workplace stress. Neglecting to support employees in managing stress not only affects health outcomes but also escalates absenteeism and undermines economic performance.
Organizations must seriously address the stress caused by mobile technology to enhance employee well-being and productivity.
