Findings from a survey of desk workers suggest that maintaining a balanced workday with sufficient focus time and breaks boosts productivity. Tips include setting ‘Goldilocks’ days and evaluating the impact of late working on productivity levels. Additionally, advice for job seekers on in-office work preferences and insights on upcoming workplace initiatives and events.
Working Hours and Productivity: Key Findings
Research continues to indicate that long hours and lack of breaks in the workplace significantly hinder productivity. According to a survey of 10,000 desk workers conducted by Slack, employees who log off at the end of the workday exhibit 20% higher productivity scores compared to those who feel compelled to work after hours.
Christina Janzer, Slack’s SVP of Research and Analytics, discussed these findings with the Financial Times, emphasizing the importance of a balanced workday. She introduced the idea of “Goldilocks” days, recommending that an eight-hour workday should ideally consist of four hours of focus time, two hours of meetings, and the remaining two hours for connecting with colleagues and breaks. This balance is crucial for maintaining productivity and mitigating the negative effects of overworking.
Janzer pointed out that working late can be productive only if done voluntarily, such as adjusting one’s schedule for personal commitments. However, the primary reason for late working is often the lack of sufficient focus time during regular hours, frequently due to excessive meetings.
Office Therapy and Career Advice
A new graduate seeking advice on job searching and preferring in-office work might face reduced employer options. However, flexibility exists, and some employers are open to accommodating such preferences. Working in a co-working space or negotiating hybrid arrangements could also be viable solutions. Additionally, the presence in a physical office can offer opportunistic “passive face time” with senior leaders, potentially advantageous for career growth.
Upcoming Initiatives
The Financial Times is set to commence “Global AI Immersion Week,” aiming to equip staff with AI expertise. Meanwhile, many companies lag in providing generative AI training. According to data from Microsoft and LinkedIn, only 25% of firms plan to offer such training this year, necessitating individual initiative for learning in many workplaces.
FT Women in Business Summit
The forthcoming FT Women in Business Summit in London will address various workplace themes, including CEO churn and the unique challenges women in leadership face. Discussions will encompass the additional public roles and expectations placed on women CEOs, affecting their tenure and career progression.
Key Workplace Stories
Recent investigations reveal that US students’ involvement in Gaza protests has complicated recruitment efforts for prime jobs. Additionally, younger workers are increasingly shifting jobs to organizations with a strong stance on climate action, and the professional corporate appearance is often supported by make-up artists—insights reflecting evolving trends and challenges in the workplace.
