Burnout impacting majority of UK workforce as job vacancies grow

Human capital management tech specialist Ceridian has released results from its annual Pulse of Talent report, which found the vast majority of workers surveyed in the UK have struggled with burnout, while 58% of surveyed workers are either actively seeking or open to new employment as job vacancies rise to record highs.

Ceridian’s 2022 Pulse of Talent Report was conducted by Hanover Research and surveyed 1,156 workers in companies with at least 100 employees. The report revealed:

• 79% of surveyed UK workers have experienced burnout, with 35% reporting high or extreme levels
• The top three catalysts for burnout among respondents are increased workloads (49%), mental health challenges (34%), and pressure to meet deadlines (32%)
• Meanwhile, 19% of surveyed workers are currently seeking a new job, with another 39% saying they’d consider leaving for the right opportunity
• Over one-third (38%) of those who reported looking for new employment said it was because they wanted better compensation, including higher salary and benefits, while another 35% seek more flexibility, such as remote work and flexible hours

“The nature of work has changed dramatically as organisations have transformed to become more borderless, agile, and always-on,” said Wendy Muirhead, Vice-President, Ceridian Europe. “Employers need to prioritise employee experience and culture with a strong focus on where, when, and how people work. There’s a reset in employee expectations and the organisations that succeed are those that address these factors in meaningful ways.”

The report comes on the heels of the Office for National Statistics stating the number of open jobs in the UK rose to a record high of 1.1 million in July to September, while the estimated number of vacancies recorded was at its highest level since records began.

“It’s essential that organisations help take care of the holistic wellbeing of their people. Now is the time for employers to prioritise the employee experience, and leverage technology to deliver programs that support wellness, skill development, and the benefits that employees want and need most,” concluded Muirhead.