Survey Highlights the Impact of Labor Shortages on Workloads Across Different Age Groups

Exploring the Pressing Issue of Labor Shortages in Japan

In a recent survey conducted by For-it Co., Ltd., which operates the affiliate platform "afb", the pressing issue of labor shortages faced by many sectors across Japan was examined. Targeting 500 individuals aged 20 to 69, this study sheds light on when and how these labor shortages manifest in daily work life. The results reveal a startling trend: an increasing workload and the associated stress are at the forefront of employees' minds.

Background of the Study

As Japan grapples with an aging population and declining birth rates, the repercussions of these demographic changes are becoming increasingly evident in workplaces nationwide. Companies are encountering significant challenges posed by labor shortages, resulting in heightened workloads and diminished service quality. The survey aimed to pinpoint specific moments when individuals feel understaffed and overwhelmed in their roles.

Summary of the Survey

- Participants: 500 men and women aged 20 to 69
- Survey Method: Online research conducted on April 18, 2025
- Key Findings: Participants could select multiple answers regarding their experiences related to labor shortages.

Insightful Results

When asked when they felt labor shortages most acutely, the overwhelming response was an increased workload, with 46% of respondents indicating this as their primary concern. Following this, 31.6% reported difficulties in taking time off, while 20.4% noted an increase in overtime hours. These statistics highlight a critical trend—employees across all age groups are feeling the pressure of heightened workloads.

Age-Based Observations

Delving deeper into age demographics, it became evident that those in their 20s often cited increased workloads more than their older counterparts, with over 50% reporting this issue. Those in their 30s stood out for their concerns regarding difficulties in taking leave and experiencing longer working hours, likely due to evolving roles that encompass more management responsibilities and the challenges of securing adequate staffing to support them. The confluence of these factors seems to contribute significantly to the growing sense of burden among younger employees.

Across Professions

The survey results indicated that this sense of increased workload is not confined to any specific profession; nearly 50% of respondents from diverse backgrounds including corporate employees, self-employed individuals, and part-timers reported feeling overwhelmed. Additionally, around 30% of corporate and public service employees acknowledged that their roles have become exceedingly specialized, further complicating the staffing dilemmas most organizations currently face.

Income and Workload Perspectives

An interesting distinction emerged when analyzing results by household income. Lower-income respondents frequently reported feeling the pressures of increased workloads and challenges related to taking time off. Conversely, higher-income individuals tended to highlight structural and management issues within their organizations, such as increased turnover rates and specialized roles. This suggests a more holistic awareness of labor shortages among higher management compared to their lower-income counterparts who experience the direct implications of staffing issues in their daily tasks.

Tackling the Labor Shortage

The chronic labor shortage that many companies experience results in additional burdens for existing employees, creating a feedback loop that exacerbates the problem. To combat this, it may be necessary for businesses to implement digital improvements and develop systematic organizational structures to address the increasing specialization of roles and attract new talent effectively. With initiatives aimed at streamlining operations and enhancing the work environment, employers can work towards alleviating the pervasive effects of labor shortages.

About afb

"afb" is a performance marketing service offered by For-it Co., Ltd., which has received top ratings for 12 consecutive years from high-earning partners for satisfaction. With nearly two decades of experience in managing over 16,000 promotional campaigns and leveraging data to maximize advertising effectiveness, "afb" remains committed to enhancing the digital advertising landscape in Japan.

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Conclusion

The insights gleaned from this survey underscore the urgent need for proactive strategies aimed at addressing labor shortages and their implications for workforce dynamics. As companies adapt to these challenges, it becomes crucial to foster an environment that prioritizes employee well-being and operational efficiency.