Frequent Meetings and Other Work Distractions Do More Harm than Good
Leaders have different philosophies that guide them in leading a company. There are those who are very stiff and provide minimal rooms for mistakes. There are others who are more compassionate. They tend to be more relaxed and friendly. Most leaders though love calling for a meeting all the time. They want to find out updates about the tasks assigned to the employees. This gives them a sense of assurance that everyone is on the same page.
Studies reveal though that frequent meetings and other work disturbances are actually counterproductive. Half of those who were surveyed said that they felt intense pressure if they are invited to join meetings. It is as if their workload is doubled or tripled. It was also revealed that even if employees work for about 44 hours a week, they only find 29% of their time as meaningful or productive. This is due to the constant interruptions as meetings or other activities are called for.
Providing freedom
Most employees prefer an environment where they are given the chance to accomplish what is asked of them instead of being nagged all the time. They also prefer quiet workplaces where they have the opportunity to do things they want without being disturbed. As long as they are given the chance to finish the job, they will manage their own time.
Instead of conducting meetings, it is better to talk with the employees directly, one on one at the start of the week and they are free to do what needs to be done during the remainder of the week. Besides, not everyone involved in the meeting have a role to play. Some of them are just there because everyone was asked to join. There should be at least 2 days a week where there are no meetings called at all.
A quieter workspace
There are other bosses who don’t call for a meeting all the time, but keep on sending emails and messages. With the popularity of group chat, everyone is disturbed because messages keep popping all the time. It becomes a mini virtual meeting room, which also distracts people from their job in the same way as an actual meeting.
Technology disruption must be limited as much as possible. Avoid sending them emails that are unnecessary or not urgent. You should also stop from making unnecessary phone calls. There should also be a receiving desk for all calls entering the office. If they are not urgent or the reception can provide answers, the call must not be passed on to the other employees.
Most of all, workers must see workplace environment changes every now and then. It helps to give them a break from the usual environment where they just sit down and face their computers all the time. If they can be sent outside for field work, it should be done every now and then.
Dealing with employees and managing their tasks could be a bit confusing. You just have to think just like them. You have to know what might irritate them and what could prevent them from doing their job well. This helps you plan what to do to increase productivity while lessening distractions.
Photo Attribution:
Featured and 1st courtesy of photostock / freedigitalphotos.net
2nd image courtesy of jk1991 / freedigitalphotos.net
