Based on the new technologies launched all the time in the consumer market, the use of social networks such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, WhatsApp, among others, is completely inherent in the daily lives of most people. But, along with these innovations, a new problem arises: establishing limits on its use.
Users are finding it increasingly difficult to detach themselves from the virtual universe, even while they are at work. There is no denying that social networks have brought great advances in interpersonal relationships, in addition to increasing the network of contacts, the flow of content and the exchange of information. However, along with the innovations also came some problems related to the use of the internet, so it is necessary to know how to regulate access to such tools, so that productivity is not compromised.
But is just blocking sites like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram enough to keep the team focused and away from distractions? There are several other sites that can disperse collaborators, so that it is impossible to block access to any and all points of rambling. Additionally, allowing short relaxation breaks throughout the workday can increase attention levels and productivity.
It is necessary to establish clear strategies to determine the company's stance in relation to access to social networks. Find out what actions to take regarding this issue:
Set access times
Adopting a more tolerant stance can be a way to use controlled access to social networks as a way to increase the company's productivity. However, to prevent abuse, it is necessary to establish rules such as specific times, maximum access time limits or tips for conscious and safe use of the internet . Lunch and late afternoon periods are a good option, or even a 20-minute break during the shift, to rest. In this way, the difficulty in guaranteeing a complete restriction can be replaced by the stipulation of rules and limits of use.
Give suggestions for conduct
If it is established that access will be granted, provide employees with some guidance, such as a company internet usage policy so that distraction does not compromise productivity. Suggest, for example, that receiving notifications be disabled, reducing the curiosity and anxiety of checking received messages. Also recommend that employees select some social networks that interest them, among all the existing ones, having a profile on many social networks can harm their focus on work and even on other activities, such as studies.
The use of cell phones in the company should also be a point to be taken into account when recommending employees. Because with the evolution of devices' connectivity to the internet, the main function of cell phones has become the use of services for checking emails, instant communication programs, applications and social networks. Furthermore, the use of personal cell phones and the internet are at the top of the list of the 10 habits that most compromise the productivity of professionals in the workplace . In some cases, using a cell phone can result in dismissal for just cause . To avoid situations like this, guide your team on how to use it, so that it is carried out responsibly.
Learn how to use social media to improve team productivity
Although, in some cases, networks can compromise workers' performance, several functions present in them can be used to organize and increase productivity in companies. The sales department, for example, could be compromised if access is blocked, since many deals are currently closed via the web.
The speed of exchanging information and the absence of intermediaries are the main benefits of teams that use messaging tools such as Skype, for example. Furthermore, constant contact between employees, even if one of them is away from the office, can even generate an acceleration in achieving goals, since activities do not stagnate due to the absence of one of the members of the group. work.
Maintaining team engagement and demonstrating to employees ways to use social networks profitably and without abuse are the secrets to improving productivity and quality of service!
Has social media affected your team's productivity in a positive or negative way? Share your opinion with us!
