New research by ExpressVPN shows that despite the fact that more than 50% of British employees say they would quit if they were monitored at work, more than 50% of UK managers believe they can’t trust their employees.
The new study reveals the opinions and experiences of 1,000 employees in the UK and 1,000 employers regarding ‘workplace monitoring’. The use of badge/pass scanners and cameras in the workplace are more commonly known. However, in recent years the growth of remote working has led to an increase in online surveillance. The survey shows that an astonishing 85% of UK employers admit to monitoring their employees online. Employers can monitor computer screens and track websites and apps visited by employees to determine performance and activity.
Lauren Hendry Parsons is the Privacy Advocate for ExpressVPN. She says, “These findings show that there is a need to increase transparency and trust at work.” Employers need to strike a balance in enabling employee productivity while respecting their privacy no matter where they are located .”
Stress and anxiety in the workplace
The survey also revealed that British workers have major concerns about the concept ‘workplace monitoring’. 42% of Brits believe it is unethical to monitor online communications like emails, chats and video calls. Unsurprisingly, 45% of British workers believe that their employers are monitoring their online activities, such as their location, work hours and productivity. Nearly half (46%) of Brits say that the thought of their boss monitoring their online communication and activity causes them anxiety and stress.
More than a third (38%) of Brits are unaware that employers can legally monitor all communications between employees for legitimate business reasons. This lack of knowledge contributes to the distrust and discomfort that exist in certain workplaces. Interesting, 17% Brits are willing to accept a pay cut of 25% to avoid being watched. The UK employees’ aversion to workplace monitoring has led to behavioural changes, including a reduction in breaks and increased pressure to work longer.
A staggering 79% of Brits believe that the government should regulate workplace surveillance technology. This underscores the urgent need for an approach to workplace monitoring that is balanced and respects the privacy of employees, while also addressing the concerns of employers about productivity and trust.
Is a full-time return to work on the cards?
In addition, the survey sheds light on employers’ perspectives. Nearly three quarters (72%) of UK bosses admit that they prefer in-person work as it requires less monitoring and surveillance. Employers also say that hybrid working makes it hard to control and supervise their employees consistently. 57% are also uneasy about remote working due to their inability to monitor employees personally, and 51% don’t trust their employees to do work without supervision. As a result of these concerns, 36% have considered moving employees to a full-time office job based on employee monitor methods.
The study also reveals how surveillance can affect employee performance reviews, and even disciplinary processes. 38% of UK companies say that recorded messages or emails have been used as part of performance reviews. A further 29% fired or disciplined staff based on recorded messages and emails. More than a quarter (28%) of UK bosses use monitoring tools to determine if a union is likely to form. 62% have checked their employees’ browsing histories or were tempted to do so.
Lauren Hendry Parsons says: “Over-surveillance may lead to a toxic workplace, increased stress and, ultimately, higher turnover.” It is essential that organisations adopt transparent and ethical surveillance practices which prioritize the well-being their employees.
The original HR news article Watching You, Watching Me… Over Half of Brits Would Quit If They Knew Their Boss Was Spying On Them appeared.