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An extreme focus on productivity might achieve short-term gains, but over time it can have an adverse effect on wellbeing, retention, and more, a workplace lawyer warns.

Dentons Australia partner Paul O'Halloran says the phrase "toxic productivity" describes "a harmful and unhealthy approach to work and productivity outputs that can have negative effects on employees and their wellbeing".

It sounds like a new term for "workaholic", but it extends beyond the traits of an individual, he tells HR Daily. A manager's "uncontrollable desire" to be productive "all the time, at any cost", for example, will influence what they expect and demand of their team...