Nearly two-thirds of employees believe their employers are overworking them, according to research from Robert Half.
By Maggie Mancini
Staff across the U.K. are increasingly turning to extra time away from the office in the form of sabbaticals as concerns around mental health, well-being, and burnout continue to be a source of conversation in the workplace, according to research from Robert Half. Â
Nearly half (42%) of the U.K. workforce wants to be given access to sabbaticals this year, with the data suggesting that this demand for unpaid time off is being influenced by concerns around burnout. Almost two-thirds (62%) of workers indicate that employers are at risk for overworking staff this year. Â
Providing sabbaticals as a benefit may be an opportunity for some employers as they try to build a more competitive engagement program. When money is tight for additional benefits or salary increases, a sabbatical program could be a low-lift benefit for some employers. It can help reduce burnout and increase retention, especially among high-performing staff who might otherwise consider leaving. From a financial perspective, offering unpaid or partially paid sabbaticals can be a cost-effective way to show commitment to employee well-being without adding permanent overheads. Â
This trend is one that employers should monitor carefully and act on swiftly to ensure their talent and retention strategies are robust and relevant to today’s workers. Failing to address the reason why so many workers are longing to take extra time out of the business could create a talent headache longer term, says Matt Weston, senior managing director U.K. and Ireland at Robert Half. Â
There’s a wealth of data showcasing the potential burnout crisis people are facing. Mental Health U.K. reports that 90% of workers across the country felt stressed last year. Employers—even those who are already offering time off—should be mindful of these trends when building their benefits packages, Weston explains. Â
