3 Ways to Reduce Burnout on Your IT Team
Except for a lunch break, a large number of IT professionals say they work almost non-stop at their desks all day. Although the majority of employers say they encourage breaks, employees say they feel a nagging sense of guilt when they leave their workstations for even a few minutes. And the lack of breaks plus the guilt can lead to stress, which leads to burnout and eventually results in employees quitting. How can you prevent this from happening?
1) Walk the Walk
If you tell your employees that you want them to take breaks, provide a designated place for them to take one. Furnish a room with comfortable places to sit, non-fluorescent lighting (if it doesn’t have windows) and healthy snacks—nuts, fruits and granola bars—and drinks, including water, real juices, tea and coffee.
2) Give Them Enough Time
Employees can feel overwhelmed and resentful when they have to eat lunch in a hurry or when they don’t have the ability to run an errand or two during the day. Many would appreciate the time to take a quick exercise break, also. Instead of scheduling everyone for a set lunch hour, spread the word that they can have up to a certain amount of time each day to take care of lunch, exercise, errands and socializing with coworkers.
3) Remember There is Life Outside Work
IT employees especially have a reputation for putting in long hours. After all, while developing Macintosh, Steve Job’s employees wore homemade “working 90 hours a week and loving it” T-shirts. But employees need sick days, paid time off, and vacation days. And Yahoo! CEO Marissa Mayer has implemented a policy of “must haves”—to help employees stave off burnout, she allows them time off if they need to be home for Tuesday night dinners or on time for a child’s soccer games.
Being able to understand burnout, its causes, and how to prevent it is essential in order to maintain a positive environment and keep the best IT talent on your team. But if you’re in need of great IT employees, call the Triumph Services team. We can find the right person for your position, every time. Contact us today to learn more!
