‘Always Online’ Work Culture - Rebooted

I read an article last night where a recent study found that the majority of employees are struggling to actually log off at the end of the day.

Two-thirds of employees report feeling pressure to stay “always available” beyond work hours, with 70% admitting they can’t fully switch off.

It is not surprising to hear that this is causing a rise in issues like stress, lost sleep, and burnout, and ultimately a rise in employee absence rates.

Our LOVE/HATE, technology-driven work culture is blurring the lines between home and work life, making it so much harder than ever to find true balance.

Business owners could benefit from rethinking these ‘blurred’ boundaries, with working practices like “do not disturb” modes and clear policies to protect employees personal time.

If you have ever sent an email outside of working hours (I know I have), ask yourself this - does your employee recipient know the expectation from you to not have to reply during their non working hours? Lead by example and if you set clear boundaries and expectations: live by the same set of standards as your team.

REMEMBER respecting your employees’ boundaries isn’t just about well-being—it also directly impacts your teams productivity and engagement.

The UK are considering a “right to disconnect” policy inspired by Ireland. Which is;

the duty to respect another person’s right to disconnect (by not routinely emailing or calling outside normal working hours.

Employers wanting to invest in their people, should get ahead of the game now, and show that healthy work /life boundaries are not only respected but encouraged.

If you want guidance or advice on how to make your place of work more disconnected, then you know where to find me ! * only during my working hours though please 😁

Rachel

Beeconnectedhr.com