This morning I read a post on cnn.com about TEDx Midwest speaker, Jason Fried‘s presentation, “Work doesn’t happen at work“. The speech and report touches on employees not having enough time in the work day to get enough tasks done at work. I have to say that I agree with not having enough time in the work day. If it isn’t a meeting, a status update, managerial check-in or a client phone call, it’s a email you have to reply to immediately. Who knew taking a break from the work distractions would help people be more productive! There are many times that I just turn off the Skype, close out of my email and blast some tunes while I focus on my work. It really helps when you are able to tune out your surroundings to get work done!
Below is the paraphrased version of Jason’s list of solutions to getting more work done at the office:
1. Instead of casual Fridays, how about no-talk Thursdays? Try it. You won’t believe how effective it is.
2. Use passive instead of active communication tools. When someone calls your name, knocks on your door, or stops you in the hallway, you can’t avoid them. Even if you try, you’re already distracted. So, instead of relying on so much face-to-face communication and collaboration — what I like to call “active” communication — try more passive methods of communication. Use e-mail. Use instant messaging. Use collaboration software.
3. Cancel your next meeting. Or just don’t attend it. I’m not suggesting you boycott all meetings — just the next one. Life will go on.
Productivity is extremely important to be a well oiled machine. I find myself staying after 5:00 more often then not, because there isn’t anyone to distract me from my good ol’ to do list. What do you think about a less “M & M” (managers & meetings) process, and a more “put on the blinders” approach?