Marvin OnumonuShadow workloads have increased for UK professionals, with 81% saying their jobs have expanded beyond their original roles over the past year, according to Robert Walters.
Over half are now working longer hours, while only 16% have spoken to their managers about the extra work.
65% said they use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to fill skills or knowledge gaps, and 44% reported regular competence hangovers, meaning periods of fatigue and feeling mentally drained.
Office for National Statistics (ONS) data showed payroll numbers fell in at least eight out of the 12 months leading to January 2026, which may have contributed to the increased workload, according to Robert Walters.
Many workers are taking on extra duties without official recognition, extra pay or progression.
21% said they are delegating tasks to others where possible.
Andrew Powell, chief commercial officer at Robert Walters, said: “Many organisations are navigating a tough operating environment right now, facing ongoing cost pressures and the need to deliver more with fewer resources.
“So, it’s not surprising that roles are evolving and responsibilities are being redistributed across existing teams.
“But when that shift happens without clear visibility or formal recognition, it can create ‘shadow workloads’ – where additional responsibilities build up informally over time.”
Powell added: “While this can help businesses stay agile in the short term, it isn’t a sustainable long-term solution and can lead to reduced productivity and increased risk of burnout if it isn’t managed carefully.”
A recent Harvard Business Review study found that AI tool use among US tech workers led to more tasks, faster pace and longer hours, creating “workload creep” and raising the risk of burnout.
Robert Walters found 65% of UK workers are already using AI tools to handle tasks they would not otherwise be able to do.
Powell said: “AI is already proving to be a powerful tool for boosting productivity and helping employees’ step into new areas more quickly.
“Many organisations are actively encouraging its use for exactly this reason. The challenge is ensuring it’s implemented in a way that genuinely reduces pressure rather than simply raising expectations.
“Without clear boundaries, there’s a risk that AI can accelerate the pace of work without addressing underlying capacity constraints.”
44% of workers said they regularly experience competence hangovers, with a further 34% saying it happens now and then.
Powell added: “Taking on new responsibilities can be valuable for both individuals and organisations, particularly when it supports growth and capability building.
“But if that effort isn’t recognised or managed effectively, it can lead to fatigue and diminishing returns, impacting everything from decision-making to overall productivity.
“Addressing workload creep requires having greater visibility of where pressure is building and responding with the right mix of solutions – whether that’s redistributing work, investing in the right tools, or bringing in temporary expertise where needed.”
He said: “Ultimately, organisations that strike the right balance between efficiency and sustainable workloads will be better positioned to maintain long term performance.”
