Do you really know? What is a ‘sandwich employee’?
Sep 18, 2025
Ever felt stuck between a rock and a hard place? That's the life of a 'sandwich employee'—typically middle managers balancing team demands and upper management pressures. Discover the signs of manager burnout and how to redefine responsibilities. With rising stress levels, understanding this role is more crucial than ever. Listen in to learn practical tips for supporting those in this challenging position!
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Middle Managers Face Conflicting Demands
- Middle managers often wear many hats and feel squeezed between competing demands at work.
- This role can be fulfilling for some but causes burnout and loss of identity for others.
Burnout Rates Are Alarmingly High
- A 2021 Gallup study found 70% of middle managers reported feeling overwhelmed, stressed or exhausted.
- The rate rises to 75% for managers under 35, highlighting intense pressure on younger leaders.
Recognize Burnout Symptoms
- Burnout shows as irritability, preoccupation with work, and a persistent feeling of failure or inefficiency.
- It can also manifest as attention problems and, in some cases, substance abuse.