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In a survey by professional services company Deloitte, 55 per cent of employees perceive their peers to be as productive, if not more, compared to pre-pandemic times. There are a huge range of ways in which new working patterns affect energy levels at work. While some may experience a surge in energy, others could find themselves more exhausted and under stress, which is likely to be impacting on how much they are able to achieve during the working week.
So how can managers and leaders make a difference and give their teams a boost in performance?
- Reduce email time
If possible, motivate employees to reduce the amount of time spent checking their email. To support this, some offices implement an ’email-free day’ on a regular basis. On those days, people can still pick up the phone for anything urgent, while other communications are reserved for designated email times. Remember to set a reminder to help maintain the routine of checking emails only at these specific times. - Start small for a quick motivation boost
Consider starting with the simpler, more manageable tasks on your team’s list. Studies indicate that completing any task, regardless of its size, triggers a release of dopamine, often referred to as the ‘motivation molecule.’ This surge can keep you motivated throughout the day. On the other hand, tasks left incomplete can occupy your mind and make it more difficult to concentrate on anything else until they’re finished. - Promote regular breaks
Trying to concentrate for hours at a time can bea recipe for disaster, so make sure to promote regular breaks. DeskTime, a productivity app that tracks computer use, analysed their data and found that the most productive employees worked for 52 minutes then took a 17 minute break. This type of work–break pattern can keep concentration at higher levels for longer, making people more productive throughout the day. - Allow people to choose their environment
Individuals are generally characterised as extroverts, who draw energy from social settings, or introverts, who find solace and recharge in quiet environments. The shift to increased remote work during lockdown may be more welcomed by introverts. On the other hand, extroverts might find they miss the social aspects of being in the office. It’s beneficial for individuals to self-assess their emotional state and respond accordingly. For some, the tranquillity of home may be good for their productivity, while others may find a place with background noise is an environment they can be more productive in such as a local café. - Encourage healthy eating and exercise
While it may appear that managers and employers should not impose on personal habits, there are suitable methods for workplaces to champion healthy eating and exercise. Motivating employees to utilise their lunch breaks and endorsing nutritious snacking habits, such as circulating links to healthy recipes among the team, are excellent strategies.Additionally, workplaces could organise online fitness sessions or suggest attending phone meetings during a walk. A balanced diet and regular physical activity are essential for performing at your best. Taking care of your team’s energy level is key to a productive workforce.
For more information and advice on how you can improve the energy and productivity of your workforce, or for any other wellbeing support, please visit the Bupa Workplace Academy.