Workers’ productivity plays a key role in the success of organisations. However, it is also challenging. For many workers, being productive means overworking until reaching an exhaustion point. Not being able to manage time and tasks can be disappointing and stressful.

The trick is to work smarter and not harder. That is why workers need to find strategies to be more productive. First, employees should start by avoiding multitasking. Even if it may seem like we are doing countless things at the same time, we are not completely focused on any of the tasks. Employees must organise and prioritise tasks by making to-do lists. This helps determine what is more urgent and important.

Interruptions and distractions at work are inevitable, given the workplace layout and the number of people we need to work with. Thus, workers need to understand the best way to manage them in order to increase their productivity. As an example, employees can turn off their work chats or phone and even inform co-workers when one is busy. A 2018 research from Talent Works showed that 58% of workers wanted a quieter space at work.

In addition, to be more productive, employees must take breaks. But not any break, it needs to be effective to allow workers to recharge their energies. Effective breaks can be, for example, going for a walk, talking with coworkers, or even reading a book. At the same time, taking a lunch break is also fundamental. In accordance with research from Business Degree, even a micro-break- a break between 30 seconds and 5 minutes- can improve mental performance by 13%.

Investing in healthy habits can also be positive for our productivity. For instance, having a good night of sleep may be crucial. Sleep deprivation reduces our ability to focus as well as our memory. If workers feel they are not sleeping enough, it may be essential to take naps throughout the day.

At the same time, employers are equally responsible for helping employees be more productive. Companies should encourage workers to give regular feedback on the workplace, working conditions, and their preferences. Providing desirable and right working conditions can boost workers’ performance. Moreover, organisations must promote a healthy work-life balance among workers. Flexible working hours or remote work can be helpful.

Workers’ performance can also be enhanced by workplace technology. For example, by giving them tools and instruments that make their work easier and faster, such as time-tracking apps or even programmes that allow workers to communicate and share files.

A recent 2019 survey by Accountemps showed that Tuesdays are when workers are more productive. Plus, 41% of respondents are more productive early in the morning.

References:

1. 4 Ways To Maximize Productivity At Work, September 2019, Forbes
2. How to Be Productive at Work: 9 Ground Rules, August 2019, Lifehack
3. How To Improve Your Team’s Happiness — And Productivity, November 2019, Forbes
4. Tuesday is the most productive day of the week, survey finds, August 2019, CBC