Managing workload
Organizational Development
More than ever, workload is in the spotlight. Many organizations struggle with the fact that employees experience excessive workloads, sometimes even leading to burnout symptoms and attrition.
It is logical, smart and fair to pay attention to managing workload. Logical, since workload is now a societal problem. Smart, because from organizations’ point of view, there are high tangible and intangible costs involved. Fair, because it is socially unacceptable to maintain a sickening work environment.
In our view, this issue requires a three-level approach:
1. Organizational culture/systems
‘Working long hours is tough’. The written and unwritten rules within an organization are often an insidious and persistent obstacle when it comes to addressing workload. It is also important to look at HR systems. What type of behavior is rewarded or discouraged? And is this what you want? Design your HR systems to help create a culture where employees can function optimally. We do this through analysis of the organizational culture, check on HR systems and possible advice on adjustments.
2. Role of the leader
The leader, whether a board member or team manager, plays a key role in managing workload. By showing exemplary behavior, paying attention to the individual or by repeating an inspiring vision including how each can contribute to it. We provide workshops/trainings on how the leader can contribute to an inspiring workplace that energizes employees. This can be part of “regular” leadership training or in the form of a separate training or workshop.
3. Employee
It starts with understanding what elements in the work create stress and what sources of energy are available and important. While some things are not within the control of the individual employee, others can be influenced. Such as paying attention within teams to creating a common goal, setting priorities and making sure employees support each other when pressure is high. We believe in a combination of insight and concrete solutions. For that purpose, we developed YourWorQ©. A questionnaire aimed at providing insight and peer review to deal with the sources of work stress.
