Workplace Distractions

Distractions in the workplace can cause many issues. For starters, there is the possibility of a decrease in employee productivity. Employees may become distracted with whatever they may be viewing or listening to, thus leaving less time for work to be completed or not finished at all. But is it possible to allow a work distraction and still be able to keep up with productivity? Author Ben Weber, seemed to think so when he conducted a work productivity analysis during March Madness. March madness refers to the time of year when the NCAA basketball tournaments for both men and women's colleges are held. (What is March Madness?, n.d.) It is a time that all basketball fans cherish, however it can pose issues in the workplace when it comes to work productivity, or can it? According to Ben Weber, March Madness increased face-to-face communication among those who were a part of a tightly knit work group. (Jones & George, 2016) In fact, according to an article written by Ben Weber, the first …show more content…
Unfortunately, not everyone gets to take advantage of such an opportunity. Instead, the vast majority of the U.S. workforce must work even when important social events are occurring. The question remain, how can an organization control a disruptive event and the effects it may have on workforce productivity? Controlled radio listening during an important event could cut back on employees from stopping their work to watch a quick update on the event. Verbally updating employees on the event would also work, but then higher up managers would have to interrupt their work to do so. Performing work related duties during a timely manner is what is most important to an organization. To avoid all distractions while working, an organization could inform their employees to perform only work duties during work hours and get an updates on the important event during their lunch or