As a manager, you are not only responsible for the performance of your team, but also for their well-being. Burnout prevention is a key element in creating a healthy and productive working environment. But how can you actively help to prevent burnout in your team?

Raising awareness of burnout
An open and positive working environment is an important part of burnout prevention. Here are some examples of what you can do as a manager in your day-to-day work to prevent burnout:
1. Show your appreciation
Feedback is a sign of appreciation and recognition, and not only in generations Y and Z. It’s not just about giving feedback, but also about receiving it openly. This encourages openness, motivates and creates a relationship of trust in which it is easier to address problems directly.
2. Give a clear scope for action
Employees like to act independently and appreciate a clearly defined scope of action that allows them to make decisions on their own. Nevertheless, it is important that they know that you always have their back and are happy to support them if they have any concerns or uncertainties.
3. Have an open ear
Despite a busy schedule, set aside times when you are available for your employees. Half an hour in the morning or evening is enough. There are always issues that can’t wait until the next jour fixe or staff meeting. This gives you space to talk about overload, and you can also speak up if you feel that a specialist can help better.
4. Observe changes in behavior
You know your employees best! Are there team members who are suddenly working significantly more overtime or are sick more often? You may also notice that someone seems increasingly unfocused or socially withdrawn. For example: an otherwise very committed colleague starts to withdraw from meetings and reacts irritably to requests. This could be a warning sign. Watch out for changes like this and seek a conversation to offer support at an early stage. Perhaps a person who has always been very communicative has suddenly become quieter? Look out for such signs and seek a conversation.
Further measures to prevent burnout
In addition to these key points, as a manager you can take further steps to create a healthy working environment:
5. Set realistic goals
Overambitious goals can lead to overload and ultimately to burnout. Therefore, set realistic and achievable goals for your team. Clear priorities and feasible deadlines reduce pressure and boost motivation at the same time.
6. Support work-life balance
Encourage your employees to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Respect off-hours and vacation times and avoid contact outside of working hours. Flexible working models can help to accommodate individual needs.
7. Be a role model
As a manager, you are a role model. Demonstrate healthy working habits yourself, such as regular breaks and effective stress management. Consciously plan recovery breaks into your day, communicate openly about your own challenges in dealing with stress and share strategies that have helped you, such as meditation or time management techniques. Your team will follow your lead and feel encouraged to establish healthy routines as well. Your team will follow your lead.
Conclusion
Burnout prevention requires attention and proactive action. Through appreciative communication, clear structures and a sympathetic ear, you can help your team stay healthy and productive. Remember: a healthy team is the basis for long-term success.