Please don't come into work!

Most employers are worried about absenteeism and the costs that it can incur. There’s no doubt that non-attendance to work can effect the bottom line. However, just because someone shows up to work, it does not mean they are being productive.

presenteeism
• noun the practice of being present at work for longer than required

I would normally refer to the Wikipedia definition, however the entry seems to be mostly focused on illness which I do not believe to be entirely accurate.

Examples of presenteeism:

• going to work when you are not feeling well
• arriving early or leaving late to keep the boss happy
• being constantly connected e.g. sending emails outside of normal working hours
• hanging around work, twiddling your thumbs, just to show you are committed.

There can some serious negative consquences for businesses. For example, illness can spread, stress is not the route to happiness, being constantly connected or hanging around usually doesn’t make you more productive. Each one of these factors on the their own could make anyone lose the plot.

Tried taking a break?

Ever just taken a day off? Decided to have an extra couple of sleep? Taken the slow route into work by walking or cycling? Perhaps sat in the office chill out area (if you have one) and spent some time reading or having a power snooze?

Obviously, it’s not the answer to all of life’s pressures and stresses, but it could be the first step towards a better balance.

Slow down…

Sometimes organisations and people need to slow down. Typing faster does not mean the words are better. More hours work does not mean better, more productive, nor more profitability.

Certain things can slowed down a bit. A thoughtful process that has had time to brew could be the recipe your organisation needs.

What do you think? (There’s no rush…!)