Distractions in the workplace are a serious problem that takes a big chunk out of daily productivity. According to a survey from Career Builder, “Three in four employers estimate that workers waste at least two hours a day.” That means 25 percent of an eight-hour shift is wasted!
But which distractions are posing the biggest threat to productivity? More importantly, how do you minimize them? Let’s find out.
Technology-Related Distractions
The same survey from Career Builder found that three of the top four distractions reported by bosses were technology-related. According to their findings:
- 55 percent of employers said cell phones and texting were the biggest productivity killer
- 41 percent said the internet was
- 37 percent said social media was
This data suggests that cell phones, the internet and social media can have an adverse effect on your productivity if left unchecked. So what’s the solution?
Start with implementing some sort of policy to dictate when employees can use their cell phones, browse the internet and access social media. For instance, you might limit personal cell phone use to breaks. You could also set filters on your network so employees can only access work-related sites. This isn’t to say you should be tyrannical about it, but creating some parameters should be beneficial.
Workplace Gossip
Just after the internet is workplace gossip. In fact, 39 percent of employers say it’s a productivity killer. It can be especially problematic when it’s negative gossip that tears others down and creates dissension among your employees. But how can you eliminate or at least reduce petty gossip?
Experts suggest having a manager or supervisor talk with an employee quickly after noticing it. Start with a firm verbal warning explaining the negative impact of gossip and that it won’t be tolerated. If it happens again with the same person, progressive discipline should be taken and even termination if it’s an ongoing problem.
Unnecessary Meetings
It’s been well documented that meetings can be more of a hindrance than an asset. They’re often a catalyst for idle chatter and can be incredibly distracting for employees. Research found that $37 billion is spent each year on unproductive meetings. Furthermore, “executives consider 67 percent of meetings to be failures.”
The solution? Cut back on unnecessary meetings and consider alternatives to communicating such as company-wide emails, instant messaging or a web portal where important information can be discussed.
It’s important you’re aware of which distractions are eating away at your business’s productivity. From there you can take the necessary steps to reduce these distractions, which should inevitably increase output.
Need help with staffing or payroll? Get in touch with Encadria Staffing Solutions today.