How To Increase Productivity In The Workplace

Most people often have the misconception that the more hours you clock in at work means you can get more work done. But how much of this time spent is used productively? Every employee reacts differently to situations and has varying approaches to getting work done. As such, it’s important that companies understand individuals’ needs to becoming productive. So here are 5 ways to increase productivity in the workplace!

1. Don’t multitask

If you’ve never been productive, chances are you’ve been multitasking all along. Research by Stanford University has proven that productivity can be reduced up to 40 per cent due to the mental blocks created when switching between tasks. Another study done by the University of Sussex have found that multitasking may actually be harmful to the brain. It’s not too late to stop this bad habit and prevent from harming yourselves. Try to increase productivity in the workplace by focusing on one task at a time. Give your fullest attention while doing the task and complete it before moving on to the next one.

2. Reward for good results

Employees are also humans and they would like to see their efforts recognised. However, many employers have failed to give recognition to their employees for their good work and it could potentially result in a drop in employee morale. Knowing that their hardwork is recognised and being rewarded with monetary bonuses will show how much value they have brought to the workplace. This will motivate them to continue giving their utmost best for the company. Even if you’re on a tight budget, thank your employees and give them words of encouragement for the job well done. Being rewarded will make your employees feel motivated and thus, increases productivity.

3. Flexible

Many of us wished that our workplace offered flexible working hours. Remote working environments and co-working are becoming popular among companies as it increases productivity while reducing the cost of operating an office. Working from home is possible and proved to be more productive than completing tasks in the workplace. Employees are actually 13 per cent more productive at home. With cloud-based services, employees can have access to information from anywhere with a strong Internet connection. The plus point of being flexible is that companies are able to expand their number of employees just beyond the workplace.

4. Take a break

There’s only so much that the brain can take. It’s important that employees take breaks from time to time before continuing work. One of the ways you can do so is by organising a team building event. Employees can engage in new and exciting games such as bubble soccer, laser tag, archery tag, and poolball! They’re guaranteed to keep everyone entertained and a great way to de-stress. After this team building event, your employees are going to thank you for even organising one. Your employees can now return to the workplace with a fresher and clearer mind.

5. Prepare a To-Do List

When there are too many things to do, it’s easy for you to get worked up and lose the motivation to complete the tasks. Prepare yourself a to-do list and prioritise tasks with deadlines. This will help you get organised and be more focused on the right task. You’re going to feel the sense of satisfaction as you strike off the list after accomplishing the task for the day. Plan your to-do list the night before and run it down with someone. This will speed up your productivity as you’ll come to work prepared and knowing what to do for the task.