The Relationship between Burnout and Perceived Job Performance among Private-sector Employees in Malaysia

This study examined the relationship between burnout and perceived job performance among private-sector employees in Malaysia. Data was collected through an online survey, 149 respondents were (100 females, 49 males) conveniently sampled. The study utilized two instruments, the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI) and the Individual Work Performance Questionnaires (IWPQ). Three objectives were aimed for this study, (1) to determine the levels of burnout among private-sector employees (2) to determine the levels of perceived job performance among private-sector employees and (3) to identify the relationship between burnout and perceived job performance among private-sector employees. Both descriptive and inferential analyses were conducted, including Pearson's correlation, to evaluate the data and explore the relationships between key variables. The results revealed that the majority of respondents exhibited low levels of burnout (n = 60) and a low level of perceived job performance (n = 96). Additionally, a significant negative correlation was found between burnout and perceived job performance (r = -.609, p < .001). The findings of this study are critical to enhancing organizational performance as minimizing burnout may improve employees’ productivity and performance, resulting in higher quality work, better client service, and overall corporate success. Organizations might use this data to establish targeted strategies and programs designed to alleviate burnout, such as stress management workshops and counseling services. The study also adds valuable empirical data to the existing body of research on burnout and job performance. It addresses existing gaps in the literature, especially regarding the Malaysian context, and provides a basis for future research exploring similar themes.