Experience · HR glossary

Burnout

Burnout is an occupational phenomenon associated with chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. It involves exhaustion, increased distance or cynicism towards work and reduced professional efficacy.

Example

An employee facing sustained excessive demands reports persistent exhaustion and detachment from work, prompting a discussion about workload and appropriate support.

What to keep in mind

HR should not diagnose a person from a survey or productivity score. Address work-related causes and support access to qualified help when needed, recognising that similar symptoms can have other explanations.

Further reading

← Browse all HR terms