This is such a great find! Watch this video (nevermind the plug for his own product). He really identifies the major problems with workplaces – that no one can do any work at work because of constant interruptions. He’s completely right in saying that it is a management and leadership issue. And it’s that way because everyone is constantly following the status quo – and they even complain about it!
I’ve always said that my dream job would allow me to work from home as often as possible. I have that flexibility now, but mostly only when I’m sick or expecting a delivery at home, for example. I am 100% more productive when I work from home. I can focus on my work, get things done, use our chat client to communicate if needed. I don’t have to put up with co-workers who come in to work when they’re sick and contagious. I can listen to music or not. I can sit in complete silence if that’s what I need to get the job done. Some people don’t have that kind of environment at home – but why not make that option available to those who could work from their home?
I really believe that offering a flexible work schedule and the option to telecommute is the best way for a company to increase productivity and in the end, increase profits. We went from offices, to cubicles to open spaces. I think the next trend should and will be telecommuting. And the companies that embrace this option and make changes within their environment to reduce interruptions will be the ones that will profit the most from these small initiatives. In the end, employees will be happier to work less time at night and on weekends! (Not to mention that companies that offer flex time and the option to telecommute instantly become more attractive to the best talent out there – remember: it’s not always money that people are after, sometimes, it’s fringe benefits like being able to work without distraction!)
More here: http://www.outsidethebeltway.com/archives/why_you_cant_work_at_work/
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[...] A while back, I posted a video about a guy who explained the toxicity of most office environments because they’re designed in a way to prevent you from getting any work done while at work! He explained how important it is to manage who and what gets your attention so that you can focus on the tasks at hand. Read my article and watch the video here: http://julielaurin.com/?p=913 [...]