The effect of stress on employee performance in the banking sector.

Abstract

This research paper seeks to examine the effect of stress on employee performance in the banking sector. The researcher chose to the banking sector because of the nature of the workload and constant pressure that employees have to deal with from all angles but still have to ensure that they are effective and productiveat their workplace and homes. The focus of this research is to establish how the banking sector contributes to the generation of different types of stress and show how the individual struggles to manage the stress thus accrued Questionnaires and observation were used to obtain information about the study. The respondents listed a number of causes of stress in the banking sector. These included; tight deadlines, heavy workloads, unrealistic targets, imbalance in promotions, harsh supervision, lack of clarity in job description and roles, low remuneration and absence of team work. For the sustainability of the banking sector, it’s paramount that both parties the employee and the Bank have to create measures to reduce stress. Several measures to deal with stress were listed by the employees. They include; adequate training sessions for non-performing staff, regular team building sessions, intrinsic and material rewards and the participatory working style to make employees feel fully responsible for the targets and decisions made. In addition the bank needs to create an environment that helps the employees to cope with demand and pressure from both the work place and family. These include; dedicating all annual leave days to the family, working smart; setting realistic objectives for the day, starting the day early, getting considerable contributions from teammates through delegation and empowerment and alternating domestic chores. A number of recommendations were made concerning stress management. The bank should treat the issue of allowing employees to actively participate in wellness programmes and training sessions with more precaution. Furthermore the bank should strengthen the interpersonal skills of listening, problem solving approaches and assertiveness.