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Book Carole "Carole was inspirational - the energy & enthusiasm was quite unique."
Mike Derrick, Chair East Sussex, Brighton & Hove Registered Care Homes Association
Motivational Speaker Carole Spiers on
the use and misuse of the Net at work
In the UK, unrestricted access to internet games and networking sites by office staff is management's running nightmare. At best, it represents wasted resources and sets-up an inappropriate playtime atmosphere. At worst, it can facilitate embezzlement and other abuses.
This makes management feeling impotent and defensive, until they decide to implement a strict ban on accessing any online material not directly related and necessary to a work schedule.
On the other hand, recent psychometric trials at Goldsmiths College, London, have demonstrated that certain online and other leisure activity can help to improve performance. Online games can sharpen and focus the mind - possibly encouraging team spirit among staffers too. Social networking often relieves emotional stress. Retail therapy generates a sense of well-being - albeit temporary - and web surfing stimulates intellectual curiosity and keeps one in touch with the outside world.
That 10-minute ration
The test-results showed that if bosses encouraged employees to take one 10-minute e-break through the day, their productivity levels would increase. But how do you police that 10-minute limit? Only by introducing an automatic cut-off device - which, however, would promptly destroy the culture of trust which some claim as part of the beneficial effect.
And the verdict among top corporate players? Many ban online social networking, while others are looking to ban any personal internet access whatsoever.
Clearly there is a lot more research to do, and discussion to take place, on the area of employee satisfaction v. employee distraction and the effect of productivity.
Taking an e-break - Summary
- Employee access to online games makes management defensive
- Banning all non-work sites can set up higher stress levels
- A 10-minute e-break is shown to be optimal - if you can police it
Another key insight from Carole Spiers, International Leading Authority on Corporate Stress,
Motivational Speaker and BBC Broadcaster.
