Work obligations trigger illnesses for numerous employees
Germany Observes High Levels of Presenteeism Among Employees
Berlin/Cologne — A survey conducted by Bilendi, a market research institute, on behalf of the Königsteiner Group, has revealed that a significant number of employees in Germany continue to work despite feeling unwell or sick. The study, which involved over 1000 employees, found that 55% do so occasionally, while 33% admit to doing so frequently.
Presenteeism, the behavior of employees who come to work despite feeling sick, is attributed primarily to a sense of duty towards their work. Nearly two-thirds (65%) of respondents cited wanting to complete their tasks as the main reason for this behavior, while the same number felt obligated to their team.
Workplace pressure was identified as a less frequent factor contributing to presenteeism, the survey suggests. Only 8% of respondents felt they were expected to demonstrate this behavior by their supervisors, while 12% feared negative career implications, and 13% expressed concerns about job security.
Interestingly, a quarter of respondents admitted to calling in sick even when they weren't, although the majority (65%) confirmed they have never done so.
The survey was carried out in April 2025, involving 1073 employees nationwide.
In many industrialized nations, presenteeism is a common phenomenon, with cultural expectations, financial pressures, and workplace pressures playing significant roles. In Germany, factors contributing to this behavior include a culture of reliability and responsibility in the workplace, concerns about negative career consequences, financial strains, and pressure from employers to meet high workloads and production targets.
While sick leave can cause worry about job security, guilt over burdening colleagues, and damage to professional reputation for some employees, it is essential to recognize that working while sick can lead to health risks, such as prolonged illness, reduced productivity, increased error rates, and the spread of diseases within the workplace.
Employers play a crucial role in addressing presenteeism. Supportive policies, adequate sick pay, and a shift towards health-oriented workplace cultures can mitigate the prevalence of this behavior, benefiting both employees and employers.
The survey findings suggest that presenteeism, a leading concern in health-and-wellness, is prevalent among German employees, with 55% working while unwell occasionally and 33% frequently, due to a sense of duty towards work and the need to complete tasks. Employers can combat this issue by implementing health-oriented workplace wellness practices, as such measures could reduce presenteeism and boost employee health and productivity.
