Research flags the dangers of going all-out at work

Many of us have been involved in a project so all-consuming that we emerge shocked by the considerable collegial and familial wreckage around us. As with all things, moderation and balance are vital. This research on work engagement raises some bright red flags for employers who encourage commitment and staff going the extra mile to get the job done. That's because of the fall-out such commitment creates, not to mention resentment, suspicion and staff 'going rogue,' to meet what they can come to regard as an almost religious calling. It's one thing to be vocation-driven, but quite another when you start framing things in moral terms where acceptable compromises are turfed. For these employees, being told they must push certain solutions or limit the amount of time they spend in problem diagnosis is an anathema. They become harder to handle, even behaving unethically at times, believing the ends justify the means. One solution is to simply ease up on your staff. Also, beware of creating an ethic of corporate social responsibility in your workforce; it might create engagement – but beware of the resentment it stokes. A lot of this story is counter-intuitive, which makes it so worthwhile reading. – Chris Bateman