Chapter 5 Case Analysis
As a manager, it is essential to ensure that your employees work in an environment where there is no stress. Studies have shown that there is a direct relationship between stress and the productivity of employees. Employees working under constant stress may lose motivation and interest to perform the duties expected, leading to incomplete or poorly done work. Stress can also contribute to illness depriving an organization of valuable man-hours and decreasing productivity levels. A significant cause of stress for employees is the monotony of work and workplaces. Working at the same work station on the same repetitive duties for weeks continuously without a break could lead to pent up emotions and frustrations.
Most organizations have made major changes in their workplaces in a bid to eliminate stress-causing factors. These changes are aimed at providing a break from daily work responsibilities and routines at the end of the day. These organizations have invested in modern and expensive facilities to be used by employees for fitness training. These facilities include basketball courts, tennis courts and fully equipped gyms for all types of workouts and exercises. Apart from the facilities, organizations are also changing their policies to adopt ones that are formulated to minimize stress. These policies may include providing medical care that includes counselling psychologists at places of work. Organizations can also reduce the number of working hours for employees where possible and introduce certain days where employees can carry out their duties operating from home. Introducing policies targeting equality among employees of different cultures, abilities, and sexualities also goes a long way in reducing stress.
All employees need a break from their daily work routines after working for a certain period to ensure they do not become mentally overwhelmed, thus susceptible to stress.