Managing Stress in the Workplace

Christa Stewart
Dr. Denise V. Siegfeldt
MGT 5013 Organizational Behavior
19 June 2013

Abstract

In today’s undefined economic times, stress in the workplace is taking its toll on managers and employees. Dealing with stress concerning budget cuts, possible layoffs, diversity issues, personality conflicts, and a wide range of other concerns can cause serious implications in the workplace. Identifying possible stressors early on is crucial to the happiness of employees. This study provides strategies that management can develop in order to obtain balance in the office. Captivating steps to avert or ease stress in the workplace is the key to the overall achievement of an organization.

According to Webster’s Dictionary (2005), stress is defined as mental or physical tension (p.638). This definition encompasses a wide range of possibilities. The reality is that stress is a part of everyday life. All of us experience some form of stress on a daily basis. Unhealthy levels of stress can have serious implications in the office if issues are unresolved. Fortunately, there are warning signs: loss of confidence, irritability, decrease in productivity, and an increase in sick/personal days.
Character differences among employees can lead to an uptight and less productive work environment. Differences in race, gender, religious, sexual orientation, and age can cause unease among employees. These thoughts are often related to confusion or powerlessness. Workplace diversity refers to the variety of differences between people within an organization. Diversity and sensitivity training can assist employees in implementation each other’s unique qualities. With the increase with diversity among the workplace and the growing use of new technology, not only is the workplace affected, but the information required doing the job, and the length of time to complete a job also has been affected. Organizations have had to find new ways to the changes that have been acquiring in the workforce in order to remain productivity in today’s marketplace. “To accept differences, we have to understand differences, and there is no better way to do this than to learn to communicate with people who are different than you” (Lieberman, 2007).
When people feel plagued, they can lose self-confidence, become short-temered or act withdrawn. This behavior directly impacts productivity, and work becomes less rewarding. According to J. Segal, R. Segal, Horwitz, Jaffe-Gill, Smith (2010), “If the warning signs of work stress go unattended, they can lead to bigger problems. Away from interfering with job performance and satisfaction, constant or severe stress can also lead to physical and emotional health problems”.
Management needs to recognize, tackle, and correct stressful situations. There are organizational methods that managers can implement to minimize workplace stress. Acting as a positive role model can promote a more productive work environment; however, there are several main areas of focus: increase communication, consult with employees, offer rewards and incentives, and develop a friendly atmosphere (J. Segal, R. Segal, Horwitz, Jaffe-Gill, Smith, 2010).
Physical and psychological
Physical and psychological stress can be avoided by creating an optimistic organizational structure and a pleasant workspace. If conditions are poor in the work setting physical stress typically will occur. Creating an enviable workspace promotes a better attitude among workers. “Settings where there is organizational confusion or an overly authoritarian, laissez-faire, or crisis-centered managerial style are all psychologically stressful” (Miller &Smith, 2010).

Communication By increasing communication managers and employees have a clear concise vision for what is expected. It is essential that all employees have a written job description and an annual review. A review is important to examine performance and set future