Facebook has been exposed as being twice as popular as Google in workplace online traffic (2). So, how can employers ensure a high level of productivity in the workplace with such an interruption and distraction occurring in the modern day office?
Managing partner of Primary Asset Consulting Education, Cyril Peupion, says multi-tasking significantly decreases productivity and is a waste of time.
“People who think they can effectively multi-task by writing a report whilst also responding to emails and chatting on Facebook are fooling themselves. Interruptions and distractions pull us from a state of high productivity, and greatly reduce our performance,” says Mr. Peupion.
Technology has increased the impulse to multitask. It keeps us plugged in and switched on at all times and has led to an erosion of our ability to accurately estimate the time required to complete tasks in the workplace. Recommendations for managing time in the workplace include:
1. Control your time. If an interruption occurs from a person or your mobile phone, allow 15 seconds to decipher whether to allow the interruption or not. In 85% of cases, the interruption can wait and you can schedule a time to get to it at a later stage. You decide. You need to be in control of your time, not others.
2. Batch. It is normal that you will need to communicate regularly with staff and colleagues. However, this constant communication can create a lot of interruptions. In order to combat this, learn to batch. Create a weekly (or relevant frequency) meeting with the people you need to liaise with. Until that meeting, batch all communication from those people you need to meet with and bring it all to the meeting to discuss. This will save time and decrease interruptions.
3. Uninterrupted time. Book meetings with yourself; there are times when you should simply not allow any interruptions unless the building is on fire. Find a way to shut off in a quiet meeting room or cafe or shut the office door and set aside time to complete tasks. During this time, switch off your mobile and email, and divert the phone. The world will manage without you for an hour or two!
[1] University of California (Irvine)2006
[1] Network Box 2010
