Workplace surveillance might help employers boost productivity or prevent security breaches, but many employees remain unaware of the extent to which they’re being monitored. This lack of transparency, coupled with the ever-present awareness of being watched, can harm morale and job satisfaction. Understanding these concerns is crucial for staffing professionals so they can better manage expectations for both employers and job seekers.

A new study by Secure Data Recovery reveals a startling disconnect between employer perception and employee experience. While 47% of respondents believe their employers are transparent about surveillance, only 40% feel confident they understand the full scope of monitoring practices. The lack of clarity creates an environment of distrust and anxiety — a breeding ground for mental health concerns.

Work Surveillance and Mental Health

According to Secure Data, 37% of US workers directly link workplace surveillance to a decline in their mental well-being. The impact manifests in several ways, the most common being that they feel an invasion of privacy (46%). Employees constantly monitored by cameras or software, or even just feeling the fear of it, feel their personal space is under constant scrutiny. 

On top of that, 43% of US workers report feeling like their employers distrust them due to surveillance practices, potentially causing resentment and hurting morale. Another 38% say their stress levels increased as a direct result of workplace surveillance and the constant pressure of being watched. 

The effects of surveillance go beyond just feelings. The study also reveals what employees do to cope. Nearly half (47%) of US workers admit to self-censoring conversations and topics discussed at work for fear of how they’d come across. This can stifle creativity and collaboration, hindering team dynamics. 

Another concern is the rise of “theatrics to appear busy” (28%) — a phenomenon where employees feign frustration or anxiety, type non-work-related things or even ignore phone calls to create the illusion of constant activity. Some employees even “stage” their workplaces by keeping their mouse moving or screens active or by staying glued to their desks to appear perpetually busy. Ironically, this demonstrates how surveillance might decrease productivity. 

How Employees Feel About Work Surveillance

Though employers may benefit, employees aren’t fans: Over half (52%) disapprove of workplace surveillance, and a resounding 59% consider it unethical. The perception of being treated with suspicion rather than trust is a major demotivator, leading to decreased job satisfaction for 75% of US workers. 

However, many employees are open to some level of monitoring — they just want transparency (52%) and a focus on outcomes rather than constant observation. 

How Employees Are Surveilled

With the rise of digital communication, workplace surveillance practices are usually tech-based: Email and chat monitoring take the top spot (50%) as the most common method. Following closely behind is time and productivity monitoring software (45%), which tracks keystrokes, login times and even application usage. Desktop and app monitoring software (27%) rounds out the top three. 

Staffing professionals can leverage this information to manage expectations for potential employees. By openly discussing the types of monitoring used by potential employers, staffing firms can ensure transparency and equip job seekers with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions.

Conclusion

To foster a positive work environment, employers should prioritize employee trust and well-being. By implementing surveillance practices that focus on outcomes rather than constant monitoring, companies can mitigate the negative impacts and create a more productive and engaged workforce. 

The takeaway for staffing professionals is clear: Transparency is paramount. Employers who clearly communicate their monitoring practices and demonstrate trust in their employees are more likely to attract and retain top talent. By facilitating open communication between employers and job seekers, staffing firms can ensure a win-win situation for both parties.