How to deal with recruiting burnout

Jonathan Kidder

2 years ago

Recruiters have faced numerous challenges and uncertainties in recent years, including a global pandemic, economic downturn, and wars. Despite dealing with these obstacles, recruiters are now facing the possibility of a recession in 2023. Unfortunately, many companies often consider downsizing the recruitment department first when facing financial difficulties.

We worked non-stop during the peak of covid and didn’t stop that pace for at least 2 years. -Jonathan

Recruiters are widely feeling a sense of burnout

With so many challenges many recruiters are feeling a sense of burnout maybe for the first time. I’ve spoken with several recruiters who have been recently laid off and I can sense the stress level rising. There’s so many factors that happen after getting laid off from a full time positions.

How can recruiters recover from burnout?

Recovering from burnout can be a gradual process, and may require you to make changes to your work and personal life. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Identify the causes of your burnout, such as excessive workload, lack of control, and low social support.

2. Prioritize self-care by getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, eating well, and engaging in activities you enjoy.

3. Set realistic boundaries, such as limiting after-hours work and saying no to additional responsibilities.

4. Seek support from friends, family, or a therapist.

5. Re-evaluate your goals and consider making changes to your career or job to increase job satisfaction and reduce stress.

6. Seek out new challenges and opportunities for growth and learning to prevent boredom and apathy.

7. Practice stress-management techniques, such as mindfulness and relaxation exercises.

Remember that everyone’s experience of burnout is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. Be patient with yourself and seek professional help if needed.

What happened during the covid-19 pandemic?

COVID-19 has had a profound impact on employee stress levels and it is important for employers and individuals to address these stressors and provide support to help employees cope and maintain their well-being.

Remote work and isolation: With many employees working from home, they may feel lonely, disconnected from their colleagues and company culture, and lack the social support they need.

Increased workload and burnout: With many employees working longer hours, taking on more responsibilities, and dealing with new challenges brought on by the pandemic, they may experience burnout and increased stress levels.

Health and financial concerns: The pandemic has brought on new health and financial worries for many employees, such as job loss, illness, and the health of loved ones.

Work-life balance: The boundaries between work and home life have become blurred for many employees, leading to increased stress and a sense of always being “on.” Many employees worked remotely and had the feeling of working nonstop.

Uncertainty and ambiguity: The ongoing nature of the pandemic has created a sense of uncertainty and ambiguity, which can contribute to stress and anxiety.

It’s time to take a long vacation…

Taking paid time off (PTO) is important for several reasons:

Physical and mental health: PTO allows you to recharge and take care of your health, which can improve overall well-being and reduce stress.

Increased productivity: Taking time off from work can increase productivity and creativity, allowing you to return to work with fresh energy and a clearer mind.

Work-life balance: PTO helps maintain a healthy work-life balance, reducing burnout and preventing job dissatisfaction.

Improved relationships: Taking time off can also improve personal relationships, allowing you to spend quality time with friends and family.

Reducing stress: PTO provides a break from work-related stress, giving you the opportunity to refresh and recharge.

Boosting morale: PTO can also boost employee morale, as employees feel valued and appreciated when they are allowed to take time off.

Note: I recommend learning more about mindfulness and it’s impacts on sourcing. I wrote a post that goes into more details (here)←

In summary, taking PTO is important for your physical and mental health, improving productivity, achieving a better work-life balance, and boosting overall morale.

Final Thoughts

In general, recruiters require a mental break. This period of slowdown should be utilized to recharge by taking time off, spending more quality time with loved ones, and reducing screen time. There are various factors that affect mental health, and it is crucial to prioritize self-care and well-being.

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