Why are burnout rates still so high years after COVID, and what can leaders actually do about it?

In this episode of HR Unlocked, Lisa Oakley sits down with Professor Jarrod Haar, one of New Zealand’s leading workplace researchers, to explore burnout, workplace loneliness, leadership, wellbeing, and the future of work.

Drawing on decades of research and data collected across New Zealand workplaces, Jarrod shares why severe burnout continues to affect around one in five workers, the surprising role workplace loneliness plays in employee wellbeing, and how leaders can better manage workload, change, and performance pressures.

The conversation also explores AI, productivity, organisational culture, Māori perspectives on work, and the leadership behaviours that make the biggest difference to employee wellbeing.

This episode challenges many of the assumptions organisations make about performance and offers practical insights into creating healthier, more sustainable workplaces.

What You'll Learn

• Why burnout remains one of the biggest workplace challenges in New Zealand

• The connection between workplace loneliness and employee wellbeing

• How workload design and job creep contribute to burnout

• What leaders can do to identify and prevent burnout earlier

• Why productivity and long hours are not the same thing

• The impact AI is having on performance, workload, and employee wellbeing

• How Māori perspectives can influence workplace culture and leadership

• The role connection, belonging, and community play in workplace success

• What great leaders do differently when supporting wellbeing and performance

Key Takeaways

• Workplace loneliness is one of the strongest predictors of burnout

• Burnout is often caused by workload design and organisational systems, not individual weakness

• High performance should not be confused with long working hours

• Organisations need to prioritise workload, not simply add more initiatives

• AI may improve efficiency, but can also increase workload expectations

• Strong leadership improves wellbeing, engagement, and performance simultaneously

• Connection and belonging are critical to creating healthy workplaces

• Small, consistent leadership behaviours often have a greater impact than large wellbeing initiatives

About Jarrod Haar

Professor Jarrod Haar is Dean’s Chair and Professor of Management and Māori Business at Massey University.

He is one of New Zealand’s most respected workplace researchers, specialising in employee wellbeing, burnout, leadership, workplace culture, and Māori business.

Jarrod has published more than 170 academic journal articles, secured numerous research grants, delivered over 140 keynote presentations, and has been ranked among the world’s top 2% of scientists since 2021.

His research regularly informs business leaders, government agencies, and organisations seeking to better understand the future of work and employee wellbeing.

Why This Episode Matters

Burnout, loneliness, and workplace pressure are affecting organisations across every sector.

For leaders, HR professionals, and business owners looking to create healthier, higher-performing workplaces, this episode provides evidence-based insights into what is really driving employee wellbeing and what practical steps can be taken to improve it.

Resources & Links

• Massey University

• Prof Jarrod Haar, PhD, FRSNZ, CFHRNZ | LinkedIn

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.