Technostress is an increasingly common phenomenon in the business environment, caused by the excess of technology and the constant pressure to which workers are subjected in the digital age. This type of stress is directly related to the excessive use of electronic devices, the need to be constantly connected, and the difficulty in disconnecting from work. Companies, by not adequately addressing this problem, can experience various negative consequences at both the individual and organizational levels.
1. Decreased productivity
One of the main impacts of technostress on companies is the decrease in employee productivity. When workers feel overwhelmed by the amount of information they receive through their electronic devices, their ability to focus and complete tasks efficiently is compromised. Excessive notifications, emails and messages can make it difficult to carry out work activities optimally.
Impact on the quality of work
In addition to affecting the amount of work that employees employees can perform, technostress also affects its quality. Lack of concentration and anxiety generated by constant exposure to technology can lead to errors, omissions, and less attention to detail. This can translate into lower quality products or services, which in turn can affect the company's image and reputation.
2. Increase in absenteeism from work
Techno-stress can be a determining factor in the increase in absenteeism from work in companies. Employees who feel constantly stressed by technology and work pressure tend to experience physical and mental health problems that lead them to miss work more frequently. This lack of attendance can result in lower productivity, higher costs for the company, and a less stable work environment.
Emotional and physical stress
Technostress can manifest itself in the form of physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, sleep problems and muscle disorders, as well as emotional symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, depression and exhaustion. These health problems can lead employees to take more days off to recover, generating a negative impact on the company's operations.
3. Deterioration of the work environment
Technostress can also contribute to the deterioration of the work environment in companies. When employees constantly feel pressured by technology and information overload, they are more likely to experience interpersonal conflict, lack of collaboration, and a tense work environment. This can harm communication, creativity and cohesion among team members.
Lack of motivation
The feeling of always being connected and available for work can decrease motivation employees, since they do not find moments of disconnection and rest. Lack of motivation can lead to reduced commitment to the company, decreased job satisfaction, and increased employee turnover, which in turn increases recruiting and training costs.
4. Increase in work stress
Technostress is one of the main causes of work stress in organizations. Constant exposure to technology and the pressure to always be available can generate high levels of stress in employees. This chronic stress can affect the physical and mental health of workers, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, mental disorders and other stress-related health problems.
Chronic stress and burnout
Prolonged technostress can lead to the development of a state of emotional exhaustion, known as burnout, in which employees experience extreme emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a sense of lack of achievement. Burnout not only affects the well-being and health of workers, but also negatively impacts their job performance and the effectiveness of the company as a whole.
5. Difficulties in reconciling work and personal life
The excessive use of technology and the lack of clear boundaries between work and personal life can make it difficult to reconcile both aspects. Employees who are constantly inundated with work-related emails, messages and calls outside of work hours may experience high levels of stress and find it difficult to disconnect and dedicate time to themselves, their families and personal activities.
Risk of burnout and burnout
The lack of free time without work interference can increase the risk of burnout and burnout in employees, since they do not have the moments of relaxation and disconnection necessary to recharge energy and recover from work exhaustion. This can affect your general well-being, your health, and your ability to project yourself long-term in the company.
6. Reduced creativity and innovation
Technostress can limit employees' ability to be creative and innovative in their work. Information overload and constant pressure to stay connected can make it difficult to think laterally, creatively solve problems, and generate new ideas. This can impact the company's ability to adapt to market changes, compete with other organizations, and stay relevant in an increasingly competitive business environment.
Impact on decision making
The lack of mental clarity and information saturation caused by technostress can hinder strategic decision making in the company. Employees may experience difficulty analyzing information, evaluating options, and making informed decisions, which can lead to errors, delays in project implementation, and missed opportunities for the organization.
7. Loss of competitiveness and profitability
Technostress can have a significant impact on the competitiveness and profitability of companies. When employees cannot perform to their full potential due to the stress caused by technology, the organization is exposed to a decrease in operational efficiency, a loss of business opportunities and a reduction in its ability to innovate and differentiate itself in the market. .
Direct and indirect costs
In addition to affecting productivity and work quality, technostress can result in direct and indirect costs for the company, such as those related to medical care. of affected employees, staff turnover, hiring of replacement staff and loss of customers due to errors or delays in the delivery of products or services.
8. Impact on the image and reputation of the company
Technostress in employees can have a negative impact on the image and reputation of the company among its clients, suppliers, partners and public opinion in general. Errors, lack of attention to detail, and delays in responding to requests can affect stakeholders' perception of the company, which in turn can influence customer retention, talent attraction, and position. competitive in the market.
Importance of addressing techno-stress
Given the negative consequences of techno-stress in companies, it is essential that organizations implement measures to prevent, identify and manage this problem. From promoting work-life balance, establishing digital disconnection policies, encouraging time management and stress management training, to creating a healthy and supportive work environment for employees, there are several strategies that can help to mitigate the impact of techno-stress in the business environment.