There’s no doubt that electronic devices have made communication easier, faster, and more efficient in the workplace.
Digital notifications, such as emails, texts, phone calls, appointment reminders, and more now allow small business owners, employees, and customers the ability to reach one another at lightning speed, 24 hours a day … but is this always a good thing.
As more and more devices become interconnected, notifications seem to be everywhere.
Unfortunately, for all of the good that these notifications bring, they can also be distracting, actually leading to lost productivity.
Problem of Ingrained Devices
In order to solve this dilemma, the simple answer would be to simply turn off notifications or devices entirely, but in today’s modern digital world, devices and notifications are now so far ingrained that it would be detrimental to business to take these actions.
Many small business owners and employees rely on digital notifications throughout the day in order to get work done. Without these notifications; a business owner risks falling behind the competition.
What Can Be Done?
In the article, “Work More Efficiently By Turning Off Your Notifications,” the author points out that you can control notifications from various apps using simple steps in Android and iOS.
Turning off notifications from certain apps may be a way to reduce distractions while allowing notifications to come through for important apps, such as email.
You might also consider placing your mobile device on silent and only checking it at certain times during the work day.
This way, you still receive your notifications, but you aren’t constantly being interrupted while trying to get things done.
Limit Your Activity
Another important point to remember is that you should limit your activity when connecting with others via notifications.
For example, only send emails that are important, and only reply to emails when necessary. Likewise, think about your timing.
If you’re going to see someone in a meeting within the next 15 minutes, wait to speak with that individual when you see him or her in person instead of sending a text.
If everyone makes a conscious effort to reduce unnecessary contact, the entire workplace will benefit.
Stop Checking Your Mobile Device
Finally, you should try to break the habit of checking your mobile device so often.
Many people find that they are constantly pulling out their mobile devices to check for missed notifications, even if no notifications have come through. This habit can lead to distractions when no distractions even exist.
Try to be mindful throughout the day of how often you’re checking your mobile device. When you go to reach for it, ask yourself whether there’s an actual need to check the device.
By continuing to think first, you’ll have an easier time breaking the habit while limiting disruptions during the work day.
About the Author: Andrew Rusnak is an author who writes on topics that include workplace efficiency and technology.