4 In 10 U.S. Workers Report Increased Burnout, Robert Half Research Shows

Rhea-AI Summary

Research by Robert Half reveals that 41% of U.S. professionals feel more burned out than last year, highlighting a growing mental health concern. The study, surveying over 2,400 workers, indicates 70% of those with flexible schedules are now working longer hours. Notably, Gen Z (47%), tech workers (44%), and women (43%) report the highest burnout rates. Furthermore, 35% of employees hesitate to discuss their burnout with managers. Experts recommend regular check-ins and clear expectations to mitigate burnout.

Positive

• Over 75% of professionals can set their own schedules.
• Companies are hiring to manage workloads, indicating business growth.

Negative

• 41% of employees report increased burnout compared to last year.
• 70% of professionals with flexible schedules are working more hours than pre-pandemic.
• 35% of workers are uncomfortable discussing burnout with their management.

• 70% of professionals with flexible schedules are putting in longer hours now versus pre-pandemic
• More than one-third of employees are hesitant to discuss burnout with their boss

MENLO PARK, Calif., May 10, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Burnout is a growing issue for many workers, including those who have flexible schedules, new research from talent solutions and business consulting firm Robert Half shows. In a survey of more than 2,400 professionals in the U.S., 41% of respondents said they are more burned out now than a year ago. Results are nearly unchanged from a similar 2021 poll, suggesting more must be done to support employees' mental health and well-being.

Those most likely to report a rise in burnout include:

• Gen Z professionals (47%)
• Technology workers (44%)
• Women (43%)
• Employees who have been with their company for 2-9 years (43%)
• Professionals based in Boston (50%), Charlotte (50%) and San Diego (48%)

At the same time, 35% of workers are uneasy about expressing feelings of burnout with their manager. View an infographic of the research highlights.

"It's concerning that many professionals continue to feel increased burnout, even as companies are hiring to help manage workloads and business demands," said Paul McDonald, senior executive director of Robert Half. "Spotting signs of burnout can be harder when employees are working remotely, so it's especially important for managers to establish regular check-ins, set expectations and encourage staff to speak up if they're feeling overwhelmed."

When Schedule Flexibility Backfires

More than three-quarters of professionals (78%) said they have the ability to set their own schedule, but among those respondents, 70% are working more hours than they were before the pandemic. Three-quarters of employees overall (74%) are putting in 40 or more hours a week.

"As more people stray from the typical 9-to-5, employees may feel greater pressure to be available at all hours of the day," McDonald added. "Establishing rules of engagement — such as sharing your general availability and communicating clear deadlines — can help workers re-establish boundaries and reclaim their personal time."

Visit the Robert Half blog for additional tips on helping employees avoid work burnout.

About the Research

The online survey was developed by Robert Half and conducted by an independent research firm. It includes responses from more than 2,400 workers 18 years of age or older in finance, technology, marketing, legal, administrative and customer support, human resources, and other areas at companies with 20 or more employees in 24 major U.S. cities.

About Robert Half

Robert Half (NYSE: RHI) is the world's first and largest specialized talent solutions and business consulting firm that connects opportunities at great companies with highly skilled job seekers. Robert Half offers contract and permanent placement solutions and is the parent company of Protiviti^®, a global consulting firm. Visit roberthalf.com and download the company's award-winning mobile app.

 

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SOURCE Robert Half

FAQ

What does the Robert Half research say about burnout among U.S. workers?

The research indicates that 41% of U.S. professionals feel more burned out than last year, with 70% of those with flexible schedules working longer hours.

When was the Robert Half study on burnout conducted?

The study was conducted on May 10, 2022.

Which demographic reports the highest burnout according to the Robert Half survey?

Gen Z professionals (47%), technology workers (44%), and women (43%) report the highest burnout levels.

What percentage of employees feel uncomfortable discussing burnout with their managers?

35% of workers are uneasy about expressing their feelings of burnout to their managers.

What is the significance of flexible schedules in the context of burnout?

While 78% of professionals reported having flexible schedules, 70% are now working more hours than before the pandemic, leading to increased burnout.