The traits of the ‘Anxious Overachiever’, and why elite companies are so keen to recruit them: Sarah Green Carmichael

In an era dominated by job insecurity and evolving workplace dynamics, the intentional recruitment of "insecure overachievers" by elite companies is spotlighted. These talented, hardworking individuals, fueled by their fear of inadequacy, often excel under minimal management, seeking affirmation in prestigious brands. Yet, their anxiety-driven perfectionism can lead to missed deadlines and burnout. Shifting focus from employees to workplace dynamics, experts argue for reevaluating up-or-out policies, emphasising the need for a caring yet high-achieving culture that dampens insecurities rather than fueling them.

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By Sarah Green Carmichael

There are plenty of reasons employees might be feeling more insecure at work these days: fears that generative artificial intelligence could wipe out our jobs; mass layoffs; the rise of remote work and, with it, ever-shifting return-to-office policies. It's not surprising that rates of workplace stress and anxiety have measurably increased post-pandemic.

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