Is Hybrid Work Causing Techno-Stress? Insights from a New Study

The Rise of Hybrid Work

Hybrid work—the blend of in-person and remote work—has become increasingly common since the pandemic. As we adapt to this new normal, many employees face challenges that can lead to techno-stress.

Key Complaints of Hybrid Workers

A recent study highlighted several complaints from hybrid workers, including:

• The pressure to respond quickly to emails, creating anxiety about perceptions of productivity.
• Digital fatigue due to constant connectivity and the overwhelming use of technology.
• The feeling of needing to be always available, leading to increased work hours.

Insights from the Study

Elizabeth Marsh, a co-author of the study, emphasizes that hybrid work can negatively impact both mental and physical health. The research identified five common themes that represent the “dark side” of hybrid work:

1. Hyperconnectivity
2. Digital fatigue
3. System feature overload
4. Informational fear of missing out
5. Techno-stress

Participants reported spending up to 67 extra minutes daily to avoid appearing unproductive, a phenomenon linked to productivity paranoia stemming from distrustful management.

Advantages and Solutions

Despite the challenges, hybrid work also presents advantages for wellbeing and productivity. Marsh suggests that organizations can mitigate the negative effects by:

• Involving workers in the process of adopting digital tools.
• Providing necessary skills and mindset training for a healthier work-life balance.

The Role of Technology

While many tools support the digital work environment, employees often feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of communication channels—emails, chat messages, and video calls. Older workers, in particular, face more challenges in adapting to digital demands, experiencing heightened stress and anxiety.

Moving Forward

To alleviate the feeling of overload, it’s crucial to focus on reducing the mental and emotional effort required of employees. By addressing these issues, organizations can enhance both productivity and employee wellbeing.