The Great Disconnect: why are UK businesses out of touch with employee stress?

By Nick Gold - MD, Speakers’ Corner

The cost-of-living crisis is driving a wedge between employers and their staff. In a recent research report, we surveyed 500 employers, canvassing what they believe are the main causes of stress for their staff.

An overwhelming 96% did not believe that salaries are a major stressor for staff during the cost-of-living crisis. Instead, they cited heavy workloads, long hours, and tight deadlines.

These factors undoubtedly do cause stress, but in recent months the more pressing cost-of-living crisis has dramatically overshadowed them.

But companies can’t be expected to solve this problem with pay raises and bonuses. Instead, we must forge deeper connections with staff to help them weather the storm and discover what drives them. Let’s talk about solutions.

Headlines fuel the Great Disconnect

The media often pits staff and businesses against each other, creating a headline-led furore that worsens the problem.

As business owners, headlines like these can make us feel that we’re letting our employees down; there’s so much more we’d like to do.

Businesses must do what they can to create an open, communicative culture and hope staff respond to and make use of these opportunities.

Staff stress impacts business

Managing staff stress levels isn’t just a matter of personal well-being, neglecting it can have a knock-on effect on your business.

Recent research suggests that 52% of UK employees plan to look for a new role that pays more or ask their current employer for a pay rise to get through the cost-of-living crisis. 16% are considering getting a second job.

Businesses can’t turn a blind eye to the cost-of-living crisis. We must recognise the impact rising costs are having on our staff, their families, and their mental health — not least because research shows a clear link between poor mental health and productivity.

Employee loyalty and the Great Disconnect

People used to work for the same employer for several years, if not their entire working life. But now, many people expect to change jobs every few years.

So, it’s inevitable that some of your staff will eventually seek new opportunities elsewhere.

But while people may choose to leave, it is possible for them to depart in the right way. Leaving the door open for them to return in future means you can ultimately reap the rewards of the work you put in.

How to repair the Great Disconnect

Subsidised travel, office breakfasts, flexible working policies: all these things can relieve the financial pressure for our staff, without compromising the success of our businesses.

But our research also highlights a huge disparity in communication between employees and employers.

When we know what makes our teams tick, we can help them achieve both their personal and professional goals — and ensure they feel listened to.

By tapping into staff motivations and recognising the huge impact of the cost-of-living crisis, you can enhance your business and start to repair the Great Disconnect.

At Speakers Corner, we’re dedicated to finding the perfect speaker for your event. Our friendly team of experts are more than happy to share their knowledge with you, to ensure that your event reaches its full potential.

Give us a call today on +44 (0)20 7607 7070 or email info@speakerscorner.co.uk.