Manager burnout is a growing concern across industries, but it’s especially prevalent in the fast-paced world of hourly work. These managers, often working shoulder-to-shoulder with their teams, face pressures that can lead to exhaustion, cynicism, and a decline in professional efficacy.

Burnout isn’t just detrimental to managers’ well-being; it ripples outward, negatively impacting team morale, the customer experience, and your company’s bottom line. How do you tackle it? First, you need to understand the causes of this specific type of burnout and then learn what practical steps you can take to support frontline leaders.

Why Are Hourly Managers Burning Out?

It’s easy to say, “Everyone gets stressed,” but the experience of an hourly manager comes with a unique set of pressures. Let’s explore some of these challenges.

The Labor Crunch

The ongoing labor shortage often leaves hourly managers juggling understaffing, covering shifts, and struggling to meet operational demands while maintaining a positive work environment. This is not an easy ask.

Navigating Customer and Corporate Expectations

Hourly managers are often caught between the demands of upper management and the realities of the front line. If frontline managers don’t trust their company’s upper management, this disconnect can lead to frustration and make managers feel unheard and under-appreciated.

Pressure From a Volatile Economy

With the rise in inflation, customer interactions can become more difficult. Hourly workers are seeing an increase in upset customers due to higher prices. This adds another layer of stress for hourly managers, who are already stretched thin.

Lack of Resources

Many hourly managers lack the tools they need to manage schedules, communicate effectively, and support their team members. This lack of support can exacerbate feelings of burnout and make it difficult for managers to lead their teams effectively. Without the proper resources, managers feel overwhelmed and ill-equipped to handle the demands of their roles.

Combating Hourly Manager Burnout: A Multi-Faceted Approach

Addressing hourly manager burnout demands a company-wide strategy that blends individual support with organizational change. Here are several key areas to address:

Embrace Intelligent Automation

Encourage managers to be open to technology—not as a replacement but as a way to alleviate repetitive tasks. Legion’s AI-powered Workforce Management (WFM) tools for scheduling, communication, and even demand forecasting can free managers to focus on leadership, employee development, and customer interaction.

This doesn’t mean handing over complete control to machines. Managers should retain oversight and the ability to step in when needed, much like a self-driving car with a watchful driver.

By automating routine tasks with workforce management software, managers can free up their time and mental energy to focus on more strategic and fulfilling aspects of their jobs. The result? Increased job satisfaction, improved performance, and reduced burnout.

Equip Hourly Managers With the Right Tools

Make sure your hourly managers have the right tools to reduce their burdens and free up valuable time.

With Legion Workforce Management Software, managers can save hours per week to spend on more important activities, like working with team members.

For example, Legion Frontline Communications is powerful employee communications software designed to streamline your team’s communication. This intuitive app allows your team to engage in real-time communication, schedule sharing, and instant feedback, improving operational efficiency and employee satisfaction.

Invest in Manager Training and Development

Targeted training can equip managers with the essential skills they need to combat burnout and thrive in their roles. By investing in their development, companies demonstrate a commitment to their managers’ growth and well-being. This can lead to increased retention rates, improved team performance, and a more positive work environment. Here are some examples:

• Soft Skills and Emotional Intelligence: Equip managers to navigate difficult conversations, lead with empathy, and foster a positive and supportive team environment.
• Time Management and Delegation: These are essential skills in any managerial role, especially in a fast-paced, hourly environment.
• Conflict Resolution and Communication: Teach managers to identify, address, and de-escalate conflicts, handle complaints effectively, and encourage open communication.

Prioritize Well-Being From the Top Down

Make it clear that employee well-being, including that of managers, is a top priority. Create a culture where employees, at all levels, feel valued, supported, and empowered to prioritize their health and well-being. When companies emphasize well-being, they send a powerful message that their employees are their most valuable asset.

• Encourage Regular Breaks and Time Off: This is crucial for avoiding burnout and allowing employees at all levels to rest and recharge. Implement policies that support this and empower managers to take their own time off without feeling guilty.
• Offer Wellness Programs: Access to counseling services, mental health resources, mindfulness apps, or even subsidized gym memberships can improve the well-being of hourly managers.
• Flexibility When Possible: The ability to swap shifts, make schedule adjustments to address personal needs, and even have greater control over scheduling (such as with the help of automated scheduling tools) can make a huge difference in job satisfaction and well-being.

With Legion Automated Scheduling, you can create a gig-like environment for your employees. In one intuitive app, they can pick up additional shifts, make swaps with coworkers, and create a healthier work-life balance.

Comprehensive Solutions for Complex Problems

Addressing hourly manager burnout demands proactive measures and a sustained commitment. While the challenges of an hourly environment might be unique, the solutions require understanding, empathy, and action.

Companies that take these issues to heart stand to gain not just healthier, happier managers, but a stronger business with higher morale, lower turnover, and an improved bottom line.

Here at Legion, we offer a host of workforce management software solutions to help you streamline your labor budgeting practices and create a healthy environment for every member of your team. Schedule a free demo to see how we can lighten the load of your frontline managers.