The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the stress levels of women executives, according to a recent survey by KPMG. The survey found that 91% of women executives perceive a surge in stress levels in the workplace compared to three years ago, with increased workload and expectations being cited as the primary cause. In response, KPMG is advocating for the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) as a means of alleviating workplace stress. KPMG’s US Deputy Chair and Chief Operating Officer, Laura Newinski, believes that by viewing AI as a set of tools rather than a threat, individuals can learn to work around it, innovate and share experiences with colleagues.
Newinski says that employers have an opportunity to create a safe space around AI and take the stress levels down, especially since many employees may be experiencing stress due to the unknowns surrounding AI. KPMG believes that AI can play an important role in reducing the overloaded workloads that executives are currently experiencing. While female executives tend to internalize and personalize their workplace stress, KPMG believes that training mid-level managers to manage differently and equipping them with tools to create change is critical to de-stressing the workplace.
KPMG expects its managers to demonstrate an understanding of self-care, including knowledge of employee-support programs, to create an open conversation around the importance of self-care and healthy habits. Holding managers accountable for the use of programs available to employees creates trust within an organization and can make a significant difference in managing stress levels.
Newinski notes that great employers are constantly listening to the needs of their employees rather than just doing annual surveys. Given the current fast-paced environment where change is constant, managing stress levels will need to be an ongoing process. Employers need to recognize that they need to be leaders in helping to reduce stress levels by creating an open dialogue and ensuring employees are equipped with the tools and knowledge necessary to manage stress.
