The internet has revolutionized the way we work, but it has also created a new employment challenge: cyberslacking. Cyberslacking is the use of work time for non-work-related internet activities, such as browsing social media, shopping online, or watching videos.
Cyberslacking is a growing problem in the workplace. A recent study by the University of Warwick found that employees who have access to the internet at work waste an average of 56 minutes per day on personal internet use. This means that cyberslacking is costing businesses billions of dollars in lost productivity each year.
There are a number of factors that contribute to cyberslacking. One factor is the increased availability of the internet. Today, most people have access to the internet at home and at work. This makes it easy for employees to engage in personal internet use while they are on the job.
Another factor that contributes to cyberslacking is the nature of work. Many jobs today require employees to use computers and the internet. This can make it difficult for employees to distinguish between work-related and personal internet use.
Cyberslacking can have a number of negative consequences for both businesses and employees. For businesses, cyberslacking can lead to decreased productivity, increased security risks, and damage to reputation. For employees, cyberslacking can lead to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.
There are a number of things that businesses can do to reduce cyberslacking. One important step is to establish a clear policy on internet use. The policy should define what constitutes acceptable and unacceptable internet use. Businesses should also monitor employee internet use to identify and address any problems.
In addition, businesses can create a work environment that discourages cyberslacking. This includes providing employees with the tools and resources they need to do their jobs effectively. It also means creating a positive work culture where employees feel valued and motivated.
Employees can also play a role in reducing cyberslacking. Employees should be aware of the company's internet policy and should adhere to it. Employees should also be mindful of their own internet use and should avoid engaging in personal internet use while they are on the job.
Here are some additional tips for employers and employees to reduce cyberslacking:
For employers:
Establish a clear policy on internet use and communicate it to all employees.
Monitor employee internet use to identify and address any problems.
Create a work environment that discourages cyberslacking by providing employees with the tools and resources they need to do their jobs effectively and creating a positive work culture.
Use software to block access to certain websites or apps.
Implement time tracking software to monitor employee activity.
For employees:
Be aware of the company's internet policy and adhere to it.
Be mindful of your own internet use and avoid engaging in personal internet use while you are on the job.
Take breaks during the workday to avoid getting burned out.
Talk to your manager if you are feeling overwhelmed or stressed.
Cyberslacking is a serious problem, but it can be reduced with the right strategies in place. By working together, employers and employees can create a more productive and secure workplace.
