Title: Slack Survey Shows Workers Focusing on Performative Tasks Hinders Business Progress
According to new research conducted by online collaboration platform Slack, a significant amount of workers’ time is being wasted on tasks that have minimal impact, leading to a lack of progress for businesses. The study suggests that instead of focusing on visibility and performative work, the emphasis should be on measurable outcomes.
The survey, which involved over 2,000 British workers, revealed that nearly two in five employees (37%) have their productivity measured based on their office presence, rather than the actual results they achieve. As a result, approximately 30% of a worker’s day is dedicated to tasks that simply create the illusion of productivity, devoid of clear objectives.
Slack, along with other organizations, believes that artificial intelligence (AI) holds the key to addressing this problem. Almost half of the respondents (47%) expressed that AI could help them enhance their productivity. By automating repetitive and mundane tasks, workers would be able to allocate their time and energy towards more impactful and rewarding work.
Aside from productivity gains, the survey also highlighted other positive effects of modern technologies in the workplace. Around 25% of participants mentioned that their engagement at work would improve with the adoption of such technologies. Additionally, 32% emphasized the importance of achieving a better work-life balance, especially in light of the growing popularity of hybrid work models that afford employees quality time with their families.
In contrast, employers are raising concerns about diminishing productivity and difficulties in managing hybrid workforces, which has prompted some to enforce a return-to-office mandate.
Chris Mills, Head of Customer Success at Slack, acknowledged the long-standing issue of productivity in the British workforce. Mills expressed hope that AI and automation can partially tackle these challenges, stating, By implementing a productivity platform equipped with AI and automation capabilities, executives can maximize impact, empower employees to focus on meaningful work, and generate tangible returns for their businesses.
Improving productivity and work-life balance are crucial aspects of business success in today’s evolving work environment. The use of AI and automation could prove instrumental in helping workers allocate their time efficiently, enabling them to concentrate on tasks that drive impactful outcomes.
