Amid an evolving work landscape, 88% of white-collar workers globally report being extremely engaged, yet 82% are experiencing burnout, according to a worldwide survey released Nov. 19 by talent advisory firm DHR Global.

“Many often interpret high employee engagement as high satisfaction, but these burnout rates paint a different picture,” Keith Giarman, managing partner of the global private equity practice at DHR Global, said in a press release. “From a surge in executive turnover to AI disruption, today’s employees and employers continue to be challenged.”

Younger generations are more likely to say they feel burnt out, with 87% of Gen Z members saying they are to some degree. They were followed by 85% of millennials, 76% of Gen Xers and 57% of baby boomers.

Top drivers of burnout include:

• Long hours, 58%
• Overwhelming workloads, 35%
• Difficulty balancing work and personal life, 34%
• Fear of layoffs/job security, 24%
• Personal conflicts with coworkers, 21%

“It’s been a tumultuous year for employers, and 2025 is shaping up to follow suit,” Jeanne Branthover, managing partner of the global financial services practice at DHR Global, said in a press release.

“US employers will need to navigate heightened political tensions, all while economic uncertainty continues to shake financial markets,” Branthover said. “Long-term shifts like generative AI and the evolution of remote work will continue to be key areas of focus. Addressing these trends to fit the unique organizational culture for each business will be critical to lay the groundwork for success in 2025 and beyond.”

DHR’s survey included 1,500 white-collar, desk-based knowledge workers who are proficient in English and age 21 or older. The respondents were evenly distributed across geographic regions with 500 from North America (the US and Canada), 500 from Europe (Germany and the UK) and 500 from Asia (India, Hong Kong and Singapore).