It’s easy for hardworking employees to push themselves too far, especially in roles where they can work from anywhere, on phones or other devices, and at any time of day or night. With limited resources and tight deadlines, many team members in small organisations wear multiple hats, making this more likely, but at what cost?
Burnout is more than just feeling tired after a long day. It’s a serious and often overlooked issue that can damage wellbeing, morale, and productivity. As a small business owner, spotting the signs early and taking action is key to protecting your team and your business.
What is burnout?
Burnout is a state of physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. It’s not just a bad week. It’s a gradual process that can lead to serious health issues, poor performance, and even long-term absences.
The World Health Organisation recognises burnout as an “occupational phenomenon,” linked directly to the workplace. And while anyone can experience it, people in demanding or under-resourced roles are particularly at risk — something many small business employees can relate to.
Common signs of burnout in employees
Burnout doesn’t happen overnight. It builds slowly and can be difficult to detect, especially if someone is good at hiding how they feel. Here are some warning signs to watch for:
1. Persistent fatigue
If someone is constantly tired, even after a weekend off, they might be running on empty. They may complain of sleep problems or look visibly drained.
2. Decreased performance
You might notice more mistakes, missed deadlines, or a drop in quality. Burnout often affects concentration, memory, and motivation.
3. Withdrawal or detachment
A once-engaged team member might stop contributing ideas, avoid social interaction, or seem emotionally distant. This could be a way of coping with overwhelm.
4. Irritability or frustration
Burnout can make people more reactive. If someone seems short-tempered or unusually critical, they might be under pressure.
5. Increased absences
Frequent sick days — especially Mondays or after busy periods — could be a sign that work is taking a toll on their health.
What causes burnout?
Burnout is rarely about one thing. It’s usually a combination of factors, such as:
- Unmanageable workloads
- Lack of control over how work is done
- Unclear expectations
- Poor work-life balance
- Lack of recognition or support
- Toxic workplace culture
In small businesses, where people often feel they can’t afford to take time off or let others down, the risk can be even higher.
How to address burnout in your team
The good news? Burnout is preventable and treatable, especially when caught early. Here’s how to respond:
1. Start a conversation
If you suspect someone is struggling, approach them with empathy. A private, informal chat can go a long way. Use open-ended questions like:
- “How have you been feeling about work lately?”
- “Is there anything that’s been particularly stressful?”
Sometimes, just knowing you’ve noticed and care is the first step to recovery.
2. Review their workload
Burnout is often rooted in overwhelm. Can you redistribute tasks temporarily? Could a project be delayed? Even small adjustments can provide breathing room.
3. Encourage time off
If someone hasn’t taken holiday in months, encourage them to book some rest. Don’t glorify long hours – model healthy boundaries yourself.
4. Offer flexibility
Allowing flexible hours or remote working can help people manage their energy better. Even letting someone start later for a while can make a difference.
5. Recognise and appreciate
A simple thank-you or public recognition can help people feel seen and valued. Lack of appreciation is a common contributor to burnout.
Prevention is better than cure
Burnout prevention should be part of your everyday culture, not just a crisis response. You can:
- Check in regularly with your team — not just about tasks, but about how they’re doing
- Set realistic expectations and deadlines
- Encourage breaks and discourage overtime
- Celebrate progress, not just results
Final thought
As a small business owner, your people are your greatest asset. Recognising the signs of burnout and taking action shows that you value their wellbeing, and that’s good for business and morale.
Creating a culture where people feel supported and able to ask for help is one of the most powerful things you can do. It starts with awareness and care, and it makes a lasting difference.
If you’d like advice on addressing signs of employee burnout, do get in touch.