Study reveals hybrid work model significantly lowers burnout symptoms

A hybrid model for work - where workers can work from home, the office or other venues - helped to reduce burnout according to a new study.

International Workplace Group (IWG), which provides hybrid working solutions, said the study found that among 1 000 hybrid workers, about 75% reported a dramatic reduction in burnout symptoms - defined as a syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress - since moving to a hybrid model.

Figures from the research show that 72% of the workforce experienced burnout at work before moving to a hybrid working model, where most split their time between a central office, local flexible coworking spaces and home.

It found that the hybrid model has led to many workers no longer having to undertake lengthy daily commutes, leaving more time to focus on wellbeing. ​

According to the study, this increase in free time has led to a better work-life balance (86%), more physical exercise (54%), healthier meal prep (58%) and better quality of sleep (68%), all of which contributes to a diminished risk of burnout. Overall, more than two thirds of workers (68%) said their physical health had improved due to hybrid working. ​ ​

Workers also reported feeling less drained (79%), less stressed (78%) and less anxious (72%), with an overwhelming 86% of workers saying they felt like they could cope with day-to-day life better when working in a flexible model. ​

The IWG said given the overwhelming positive impact of hybrid working on workers’ mental and physical health, it is unsurprising that 76% said returning to a central office five days a week would negatively affect their wellbeing. ​

The study also suggests it could positively impact business productivity. 74% of workers said they were more productive when working in a hybrid model, while a similar number (76%) reported being more motivated. 85% of employees said that hybrid work had actually improved their job satisfaction. ​

HR leaders’ views support this, with four in five (86%) stating hybrid work is now one of the most in-demand employee wellness benefits, and report that it increases employee productivity (85%).

The study is also supported by research undertaken earlier this year by The Bank of England, Stanford University, King's College London and Nottingham University, led by economist and academic Nick Bloom. It found that for every day a firm’s employee worked in a hybrid model, that that firm’s productivity was significantly higher. ​

Mark Dixon, International Workplace Group CEO said hybrid working brings strong productivity and financial advantages to companies and work-life balance improvements to employees, but significant health benefits too – physically, mentally and holistically.

“No longer having to spend so much time commuting to central offices means that employees have more time to look after their wellbeing, but also reduces the likelihood of burnout in the workforce. ​ ​ Companies need to take note that not only will they have a happier, healthier workforce when they allow people to work flexibly, but people actually feel more productive and motivated.”

THE MERCURY