Robert Half's research shows increased productivity, but longer hours spark worries about burnout
Hiring managers report increased productivity within their teams, primarily due to efforts in staffing and training.
However, concerns are growing as some professionals indicate they are working longer hours compared to the previous year, which raises issues related to burnout, morale, and turnover. Recent research from Robert Half has revealed a nuanced view of worker productivity.
The surveys conducted with hiring managers and workers underscore five key trends influencing employee productivity:
Increased Productivity: Nearly seven in ten hiring managers (68 percent) have observed an increase in employee productivity compared to one year ago. Meanwhile, 21 percent report no change, and 11 percent note a decline in productivity within their teams.
Impact of Staffing and Training: Hiring managers identify hiring full-time employees (31 percent), improving management practices (31 percent), enhancing staff training (31 percent), and adopting new technologies (29 percent) as the most significant contributors to higher productivity.
AI and Efficiency: The introduction of emerging technologies, such as generative AI, has led to increased efficiency for some workers. Three in ten professionals report that these technologies have enabled them to automate time-consuming tasks, allowing for more strategic thinking.
Gen Z workers (47 percent) are the most likely to report improved productivity through AI, followed by millennials (32 percent). In contrast, only 23 percent of Gen X professionals and 14 percent of baby boomers feel that generative AI has enhanced their efficiency.
Flexibility Enhances Focus: Workers identified several incentives and work arrangements that boost engagement and productivity. More than half of respondents (52 percent) believe that hybrid work options increase their productivity.
Additionally, 42 percent say flexible work hours improve their engagement, and 27 percent report that compressed workweeks, such as Summer Fridays, make them more productive and engaged.
Increased Work Hours: Despite the rise in productivity, nearly 3 in 10 workers (29 percent) are working longer hours than they did a year ago. This trend is most pronounced among Gen Z workers (39 percent), followed by millennials (34 percent).
Furthermore, over half of managers (52 percent) admit to sending emails to employees outside of regular business hours, and 28 percent expect responses before the next business day.
“Increased productivity is very positive news for managers, businesses, and professionals alike,” commented Koula Vasilopoulos, senior managing director of Robert Half Canada. “Businesses that maintain necessary staffing levels, adopt new technologies, and invest in learning and development training for their staff see the benefits in increased engagement and productivity.”
Vasilopoulos continued, “However, this needs to be balanced with a positive work environment, including reasonable hours and flexibility, as working longer hours and not establishing work-life balance can quickly offset productivity gains through burnout and turnover.”
