Communicators such as Messenger, WhatsApp or Skype most effectively distract us from work – as indicated by 82 percent of respondents in a survey conducted by HR Global Group. Interestingly – for comparison – “face to face” conversations with colleagues distract only 27 percent.

The contact with loved ones, family and friends, which is now so much easier, means that we are happy to use this possibility also in the workplace. Because if a wife, mother or friend writes what – we will not answer? – rhetorically asks Dariusz Michalski, president of the HR Global Group agency. The survey shows a clear conclusion: “network” access generates the most engaging distractions.

Instant messaging, social media, internet portals

A smartphone and a computer are the basic work tools of almost every employee in the office. Tools that significantly facilitate the work, but at the same time “tempt” with their abilities. All you need is a connection to Wi-Fi, 3G or LTE. Access to the “network” allows, among others for communication via the mentioned messengers, but not only. Few fewer working Poles (76%) indicated that they were distracted from work by Facebook, 64% – browsing websites, and 57 percent – Instagram. An interesting fact is that almost one in ten of us is distracted from work by even VOD services.

Employers have long come to terms with the access and use of Facebook or instant messaging by employees. “Breaks” to check what’s new in social media do not worry because they usually last relatively short. On the other hand, it is slightly disturbing that 12 percent of respondents allow themselves to watch movies or series at work. These “breaks”, however, last much longer, which may affect the quality of work performed by such an employee – says Michalski.

Noise, clutter and uncomfortable armchair

On the other hand, there are more “earthly” factors. Most of them – 22 percent of the respondents – are distracted in the workplace. This is certainly a particularly troublesome factor in the summer, when Polish offices often turn into saunas. Less than every fifth respondent is distracted by a mess on the desk or in the workplace; 17 percent Various kinds of noises coming from the outside are its signs. In turn, 14 percent complain about an uncomfortable workplace.

What to do with distractions?

The percentage differences between the first and second group of “distractors” are huge, however. A simple conclusion can be drawn from this – it is the access to the Internet, laptops and smartphones that most often contribute to relaxation at work. So how do you solve the problem of “network” diffusers at work?

As long as an employee is reasonable, I don’t think there is a need to fight these types of distractions. Of course, there are also companies on the Polish and foreign markets that block employees, e.g. access to the network or Facebook itself on computers or business laptops. But does it have any effect? I do not think so. Of course, it would be best if employees browsed social media, etc. during their break from work. Worse, however, if we are dealing with an employee who is simply addicted to the Internet and social media. In such cases, it is worth trying to convince the employee to fight such addiction, for his benefit, and not only in the context of work – says Michalski.

Survey results on a group of 300 people aged 18-60:

Question: What distracts you and effectively distracts you from work? (multiple choice)

  • Messenger, WhatsApp, Skype, etc. – 82 percent
  • Facebook – 76 percent
  • Browsing / reading web portals – 64%
  • Instagram – 57%
  • Conversations with co-workers – 27%
  • Temperature in the office / workplace – 22%
  • Clutter on the desk / workplace – 19%.
  • Noise “from the street” – 17 percent
  • Uncomfortable position / armchair / desk – 14%
  • Video services – 12 percent
  • Games – 6%