LiveCareer has released the Hidden Costs and Rewards of Extra Work Report, shedding light on how additional responsibilities affect employee well-being, productivity, and professional growth. Based on a December 2024 survey of 1,160 U.S. workers, the report uncovers the widespread prevalence of extra work, its causes, and its diverse outcomes, ranging from burnout to skill development.
Key Insights from the Report
- Prevalence of Extra Work
- 77% of employees take on extra work weekly, with 36% facing these requests daily.
- Only 3% report never being asked to take on additional tasks.
- Burnout Among Employees
- 93% of employees experience burnout from extra responsibilities.
- 59% frequently feel burned out from the inability to decline extra work.
- 34% occasionally report burnout.
- Why Employees Accept Extra Work
- 27% feel pressured by managers or leadership.
- 24% seek recognition or aim to stand out.
- 23% want to support their teams.
- 18% see it as an opportunity for career advancement.
- Sources and Types of Extra Work
- Requests often come from managers (23%), senior leaders (22%), and coworkers (22%).
- Tasks include:
- Planning workplace events (37%).
- Administrative duties (37%).
- Overtime work (32%).
- Mentoring or training colleagues (28%).
Positive Outcomes of Extra Work
Despite challenges, extra responsibilities can yield benefits:
- 33% cite skill development.
- 32% report financial rewards, such as bonuses or raises.
- 31% experience closer relationships with colleagues.
- 31% identify opportunities for career advancement.
Negative Outcomes of Extra Work
Challenges associated with extra responsibilities include:
- Strained supervisor relationships (40%).
- Reduced productivity (37%).
- Lower job satisfaction (34%).
- Unrealistic expectations for future performance (32%).
Perceptions of Fairness and Compensation
- 56% of employees view extra work as critical to organizational success.
- 90% feel fairly compensated for their efforts.
- Older workers (41+) are more likely to view task distribution as fair (75%) than younger workers (35%).
Expert Commentary
Jasmine Escalera, career expert at LiveCareer, emphasizes the need for balance. While extra work can foster skill development and career growth, unclear expectations and inequitable task distribution can lead to burnout and dissatisfaction. Open communication, fair workload management, and boundary-setting are essential for sustainable productivity and employee well-being.
The Hidden Costs and Rewards of Extra Work Report highlights both the opportunities and challenges of additional responsibilities in the workplace. Organizations that prioritize transparency, fairness, and communication can ensure employees feel supported, motivated, and valued, leading to long-term success for all.
