Burnout isn’t just about long hours—it’s about sustained imbalance. And one of the biggest drivers? Team size.
When teams are understaffed, employees are often stretched thin, forced to juggle workloads beyond their capacity. This can lead to increased stress, decreased job satisfaction, and eventually, burnout. According to Gallup, “Employees who feel unsupported or overwhelmed by workload are 2.6 times more likely to say they’re “very often” burned out.”
Why staffing levels matter
Smaller teams can foster tight collaboration—but only when the workload matches the bandwidth. When resources are limited and expectations stay the same (or increase), it creates an unsustainable environment that impacts productivity and morale. Conversely, adequately staffed teams are more likely to report higher engagement, better performance, and stronger retention.
The cost of burnout
Burnout doesn’t just affect individuals. It costs organizations in the form of turnover, absenteeism, and decreased output. Forbes noted that, “Lost productivity and turnover are among the most expensive consequences of burnout. A study in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine estimates that burnout costs American companies between $4,000 and $21,000 per employee annually due to lost productivity and turnover. For a company with 1,000 employees, that could mean losses of approximately $5 million annually. Employee burnout can cost employers 0.2 to 2.9 times the average cost of health insurance, and 3.3 to 17.1 times the cost of training per employee.”
What can companies do?
Assess workload regularly: Keep a pulse on your team’s capacity and adjust accordingly.
Invest in the right hires: Bring in talent that complements your current team and lightens the load.
Encourage time off and boundaries: A well-rested team is a more productive team.
Partner with a staffing expert: Agencies like Green Key can help fill gaps quickly and strategically—so your team stays balanced and burnout-free.
How Can Green Key Resources Help
At Green Key, we work closely with hiring managers to understand your team’s unique challenges and deliver staffing solutions that reduce pressure and increase productivity. Whether you need full-time talent or short-term support, we’re here to help you build stronger, more resilient teams. Ready to give your team the support they need? Let’s connect!
