Research shows that over 50% of Gen Z and younger millennials are more burned out than their older peers, and professionals under 35 are the most disengaged, feeling little connection to their colleagues. What can young professionals do to regain a sense of control over their careers and stay engaged without burning out?
Overdeliver selectively.
A good way to grow in your role without burning out is to identify and prioritize the work that will be most recognized by your manager and organization.
To do that, set up regular check-ins with your boss. Use the time to understand your team’s goals and where the company wants to invest its resources.
Then, pick one key goal on your list and strategically plan to overdeliver on tasks related to it.
Find subtle ways to receive recognition.
When you receive positive feedback in a client-facing role, ask your client if they’d be willing to send it to you in writing so that you can share it with your team – and then forward the note to your boss (or ask the client to cc them directly).
If most of your work is already seen by your manager but remains invisible to other senior leaders, suggest that your boss share your learnings with the wider team or allow you to present them in a larger meeting.
Stay connected.
When you’re on the brink of burnout, networking may seem like the last thing you want to do. But in the long term, it’s a useful strategy to increase your engagement at work.
Identify colleagues who can help you learn and grow, who share your values or interests, who inspire you, or perhaps even colleagues who can teach you specifically because they’re different than yourself.
