Is your tax team experiencing burnout?

As the U.S. tax season approaches, many firms and organizations turn their attention to maximizing efficiency and accuracy. However, amid the hustle and bustle, one critical aspect often gets overlooked: the well-being of the tax team.

Did you know that 89% of American workers have experienced burnout over the past year?

Burnout is a significant issue in high-pressure environments like tax preparation, and it can have lasting effects on productivity, employee retention, and overall morale.

What is burnout?

Burnout is more than just a buzzword; it’s a psychological syndrome resulting from chronic stress in the workplace. The World Health Organization recognizes it as a syndrome that manifests in three dimensions:

• Feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion
• Uncreased mental distance from one’s job, or feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one’s job
• Reduced professional efficacy.

In the context of a tax team, burnout can lead to mistakes in filings, missed deadlines, and a drop in the quality of service provided to clients. Recognizing the signs early can help prevent serious consequences.

Signs of burnout in your tax team

• Increased absenteeism – Frequent sick days or requests for leave can indicate that team members are struggling to cope with stress.
• Decreased Productivity – If your normally high-performing team is missing deadlines or producing subpar work, burnout could be a factor.
• Negative Attitudes – If team members are showing signs of cynicism or frustration, it can impact team dynamics and client interactions.
• Physical Symptoms – Chronic headaches, fatigue, and other stress-related symptoms may be signs that team members are overwhelmed.
• Withdrawal – If individuals become more isolated or disengaged from team activities, it may signal emotional exhaustion.

Causes of burnout in tax teams

There are several causes of burnout in tax teams and understanding them is crucial for effective intervention. Long hours are a key cause, particularly around tax season, when extended working hours due to a higher and more intense workload are required. With increased working hours often comes higher stakes and increased pressure. As a result, the pressure of meeting deadlines and the consequences of errors can create a stressful environment which can contribute to burnout. Moreover, this can be compounded by insufficient support. A lack of support, either team members or resources can overwhelm people, and contribute to burnout.

So, how can businesses prevent their tax teams from burning out?

21% of workers say their company does not offer any program to help alleviate burnout.

1. Promote open communication – create an environment where team members feel safe discussing their stress levels. Regular check-ins and an open-door policy can help identify issues before they escalate.

2. Manage workloads – Distribute tasks more evenly and consider temporary hires or interns during peak seasons to lighten the load on your core team.

3. Encourage time off – Promote the importance of taking breaks and vacations. A refreshed team is more productive and engaged.

4. Offer flexibility – Allow for flexible work hours or remote work options when possible. This can help team members manage their time better and reduce stress.

5. Provide resources – Consider implementing wellness programs that offer mental health resources, stress management workshops, or access to counselling services.

6. Celebrate achievements – Recognize and celebrate the hard work of your team, both during and after tax season. This can boost morale and foster a sense of accomplishment.

Burnout is a serious issue that can impact your tax team’s performance and well-being. By recognizing the signs and implementing proactive strategies, you can create a supportive work environment that not only enhances productivity but also prioritizes the mental health of your team. Remember, a well-rested and motivated tax team is a successful one. As we approach the busy season, let’s make sure we’re looking out for each other.

Do you need an interim tax professional to stop your team from experiencing burnout?

At Brewer Morris we have a network of interim tax professionals on hand who can aid your organization during busy season.

If you are looking to hire an interim tax accountant to aid your team with increased workload or cover staff absence, please don’t hesitate to submit a brief and a member of our team will be in touch.

Alternatively, if you are looking for a new interim tax opportunity, look at our latest opportunities.