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How to spot resenteeism in the workplace

What is 'Resenteeism'?

Resenteeism is a phenomenon that can have a significant impact on workplace productivity and employee wellbeing. It occurs when employees attend work despite being unwell or experiencing other issues that impact their ability to work effectively. Resenteeism in the workplace refers to a situation where employees attend work despite being unwell or experiencing other issues that impact their ability to work effectively.

It can be caused by a variety of factors, including chronic health issues, ongoing mental health problems, workplace stress, or dissatisfaction with one's job or organisation. Resenteeism can have a negative impact on workplace productivity, employee wellbeing, and overall organisational culture. It is important for employers to recognize the signs of resenteeism and to provide appropriate support and accommodations to employees who may be struggling. In this blog post, we will discuss how to spot resenteeism in the workplace.

What are the signs of resenteeism?

  1. Decline in Work Quality: One of the most common signs of resenteeism is a decline in work quality. This could manifest in missed deadlines, incomplete work, or lower quality work than usual. Employees who are struggling with their mental or physical health may find it challenging to focus or have the energy to complete their work to the best of their ability.

  2. Increased Absenteeism: While resenteeism is characterised by employees attending work despite being unwell, it is not uncommon for such employees to take frequent sick days. This is because they may be struggling with a chronic health issue or experiencing ongoing mental health problems, which can make it challenging to maintain a regular attendance pattern.

  3. Reduced Engagement: Employees who are experiencing resentment towards their job or organisation may also show signs of disengagement. They may seem less enthusiastic about their work, be less likely to contribute to group discussions or attend meetings, and show a general lack of interest in the workplace.

  4. Increased Tardiness: Another sign of resenteeism is increased tardiness. Employees who are struggling with their mental or physical health may find it challenging to get out of bed or may need to spend more time getting ready in the morning. This can result in them arriving late to work or taking longer breaks throughout the day.

  5. Mood Swings: Lastly, employees who are struggling with their mental or physical health may also exhibit mood swings. They may seem more irritable, frustrated, or anxious than usual, and may struggle to regulate their emotions. They may also withdraw from social interactions or seem more guarded than usual.

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What can employers do about increasing resenteeism in the workplace?

Employers can take a variety of steps to address resenteeism and support employees who may be struggling. Here are some examples:

  1. Promote a culture of open communication: Encourage employees to communicate openly and honestly about any health issues or challenges they are facing. Create a supportive environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their concerns with management.

  2. Provide flexible working arrangements: Offer flexible working arrangements, such as working from home, flexible hours, or part-time work, to accommodate employees who are struggling with ongoing health issues.

  3. Offer access to mental health support: Provide access to mental health support services, such as counseling or therapy, to help employees manage stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues.

  4. Implement wellness programmes: Implement wellness programs that promote physical and mental health, such as exercise classes, meditation sessions, or nutrition workshops.

  5. Educate employees about the importance of taking sick leave: Encourage employees to take sick leave when they need it and to prioritize their health and wellbeing. Educate employees about the negative impact that resenteeism can have on themselves and their colleagues.

  6. Review workload and job demands: Review workload and job demands to ensure that they are reasonable and manageable for employees. This can involve redistributing tasks, providing additional training and resources, or reducing non-essential tasks.

  7. Create a positive workplace culture: Foster a positive workplace culture that prioritizes employee wellbeing, engagement, and satisfaction. This can involve offering recognition and rewards, promoting work-life balance, and creating opportunities for professional development and growth.

 

What can The Doctors Clinic Group do to help employers with resenteeism amongst staff?

The Doctors Clinic Group offers a range of GP and occupational health pathways that can help employers tackle resenteeism in the workplace. Our GP services provide easy access to healthcare professionals, allowing employees to get timely and effective treatment for health issues that may be impacting their ability to work whether that's physical or mental. Our occupational health pathways offer support for employees with ongoing health issues, providing assessments, treatments, and advice on managing work-related stress and other health issues. By working with The Doctors Clinic Group, employers can provide their employees with the support and resources they need to manage their health and wellbeing, reducing the risk of resenteeism and promoting a more productive and engaged workforce.

In conclusion, employers have a key role to play in addressing resenteeism in the workplace. By promoting a culture of open communication, providing access to support services, implementing wellness programs, and creating a positive workplace culture, employers can support employees who may be struggling and create a more productive and engaged workforce.