A new study by Boston Consulting Group (BCG) titled ‘Four Keys to Boosting Inclusion and Beating Burnout’ rings the alarm bell for global companies. Nearly half (48 per cent) of employees across eight surveyed countries are reported to be burnt out – a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged or excessive stress. This epidemic of dissatisfaction can cripple not just employees but entire businesses.
India, unfortunately, stands as a grim leader in this burnout race. With a staggering 58 per cent of its workforce burnt out, the country fares 10 per cent worse than the global average. Australia trails close behind at 53 per cent, while countries like Japan and Germany find some solace with lower burnout rates of 37 per cent.
The power of inclusion
BCG’s research offers a glimmer of hope. Inclusion, the feeling of being valued, respected, and supported at work, emerges as a critical factor in reducing burnout. It cuts the risk of burnout in half, highlighting the importance of fostering an environment where everyone feels like they belong and their contributions matter.
Fostering inclusion builds a bridge to a more engaged and productive workforce. This study pinpoints four pillars crucial for building that bridge: access to resources (tools, training, support), senior management actively championing inclusion (not just empty words), psychological safety (feeling comfortable to speak up), and equal opportunity for advancement for all employees.
Vulnerable groups
The harsh reality is that burnout disproportionately affects specific groups of employees, including women, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, and deskless workers. These groups also reported lower levels of inclusion compared to their counterparts. To combat burnout, companies must prioritise creating a more inclusive environment that caters to everyone’s needs.
Inclusion isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s a smart business decision. BCG’s research demonstrates that fostering a more inclusive workplace leads to a healthier bottom line. Companies that prioritise inclusion see reduced employee turnover – happy and valued employees are more likely to stick around. Inclusion also fuels engagement and productivity – a workforce that feels respected and supported goes the extra mile. Furthermore, a reputation for inclusion becomes a magnet for top talent seeking a positive work environment. By prioritising these benefits, companies pave the way for a brighter future, not just for their employees, but for their own success.
Inclusion is not a distant dream; it’s an achievable goal. By focusing on the four key drivers of inclusion and addressing the specific needs of underrepresented groups, companies can create a work environment that fosters well-being, productivity, and overall success. In a country like India, where burnout rates are particularly high, prioritising inclusion strategies is not just a moral imperative but a business necessity.
