Workplace Stress

Definition:-
Workplace stress is the reaction to the emotional state that results from a perceived disparity
between a person's ability to deal and the amount of occupational pressure one’s bear. We
could also say that social, occupational, environmental, and psychological aspects that we
perceive as dangers have an impact on our emotions at work. External stimuli are perceived
threats, and stress is the human body's response to these stimuli in any working
environment.

Example Elaborating Workplace stress:-

The danger of falling out of a boat into the water would be more stressful for someone who
cannot swim than for someone who can swim well. The water is just as deep and the boat is
exactly as far from the shore in this case. Non-swimmers have a harder time swimming than
swimmers. This is due to a skilled swimmer's ability to deal with adversity with the perilous
position, the same logic applies to all imagined dangers in the workplace threats.

Similarly, in a working environment where one skilled labor would have an edge over a naïve
labor as former got some extra skills and abilities that the latter lacks. This would cause him or
her in stress.

Common Causes:-
Following are some common and foremost causes of workplace stress:-

o Management or Boss pressure to meet the required demand.

o Downsizing or layoffs have occurred in the recent years
o Employee benefits were significantly cut recently
o Workloads vary significantly over the period.
o Worker’s pay is below average market rate.
o Few opportunities for promotion are available.
o Employees don’t get the reward or confidence what they performed.
o Leg pulling is quite common among the staffs.

These are some causes that are definitely linked and leads to workplace stress. As a result, the
working environment and firm’s productivity might get disturbed.
 b).

Ans:- As we find that workplace stress has drastic effects on the whole workplace environment,
thus there is a dire need to cope with these negative factors. Following are some common
strategies to reduce the workplace stress to its minimum.

Strategies to Reduce the Workplace Stress

o As shift work has an adverse effect and it causes stress, also shift work is adopted
worldwide. Only US has around fifteen million people working in shifts, so by
encouraging them to exercise regularly, distributing perks, boosting their willpower,
offering light meals etc. are some tactics to avoid stress in them.
o Training sessions could help staff recognize and deal with stress effectively. Employees
need to understand what is expected of them at all times and to be recognized when it
is due. These sessions might provide them with an insight to tackle stress.
o Lack of job autonomy might cause stress. Employees can reach their full potential if
their managers help them align their career ambitions with the company's goals and
give them more control over their positions.
o Physical stress may be reduced by improving the work environment and establishing a
sound safety and health program. Managers should have a positive attitude towards
their lower staffs and workers.
o Instead of carrying the entire load, individuals might efficiently adapt to a difficult job by
delegating responsibility. Stress can also be mitigated by using relaxation techniques.

In a nutshell, we can summarize the following strategies to reduce the stress:-

o Employees are free to talk with each other during work.

o Employers offer exercise and other stress-reduction classes.
o Employees are recognized and rewarded with nonmonetary prizes for their
contributions.
o Work rules are published and are the same for everyone.
o Workers have the training and technology access that they need.
o Employers encourage work and personal support groups.
o Workers have a place and time to relax during the workday.
o Management should create a friendly and humor admirable environment.