- Sometimes there's just to much to do. The pressure of deadlines and concerns about the ability to fulfill all responsibilities is a tremendous source of stress in the workplace. This is becoming more prevalent as companies downsize and employees take on work that was part of now-discontinued jobs.
- Keeping up with today's rapid-fire communication is a significant cause of workplace stress. Phone calls, emails, faxes, teleconferences, online message boards, and other communication media can be a constant assault on employee attention.
- Of course, the other end of the communication spectrum can easily foster stress in the workplace, too. Employees rely on their superiors to provide direction, instructions, details, and other pieces of essential information. When such information isn't being relayed properly, employees are often left frustrated and uncertain.
- As layoffs, downsizing, outsourcing, restructuring, mergers, buy-outs and plant closings become more common, many employees are left worrying about their job security. This becomes particularly stressful when employees witness coworkers losing their jobs.
- Everyone requires feedback. This includes affirmation and constructive criticism. However, when positive feedback for jobs well done is never forthcoming, it leads to concerns about whether work is good enough, noticed or appreciated. This anxiety can become quite stressful over time.
