More than three-quarters (79%) of UK workers have experienced burnout, with 35% reporting high or extreme levels, according to new research.
Human capital management technology business Ceridian’s annual 2022 Pulse of talent report surveyed 1,156 UK members of staff in organisations with at least 100 employees, revealing that the vast majority have struggled with burnout, while 58% are either actively seeking or open to new employment.
The research highlighted that the top three catalysts for this were increased workloads (49%), mental health challenges (34%), and pressure to meet deadlines (32%).
In addition, 19% are currently seeking a new job, with another 39% saying they’d consider leaving for the right opportunity. More than one-third (38%) of those looking for new employment said it was because they wanted a higher salary and benefits, while another 35% are after more flexibility, such as remote work and flexible hours.
Wendy Muirhead, vice president of Ceridian Europe, commented that the nature of work has changed dramatically as organisations have transformed to become more borderless, agile and always on.
She explained that employers need to prioritise employee experience and culture with a strong focus on where, when, and how people work, as there has been a reset in employee expectations, and the organisations that succeed are those that address these factors in meaningful ways.
“It’s essential that organisations help take care of the holistic wellbeing of their people. Now is the time for employers to prioritise the employee experience, and leverage technology to deliver programs that support wellness, skill development, and the benefits that employees want and need most,” concluded Muirhead.
These findings follow the Office for National Statistics stating that the number of open jobs in the UK rose to a record high of 1.1 million in July to September, while the estimated number of vacancies recorded was at its highest level since records began.