Workplace Productivity Dips During Holidays

http://www.worldatwork.org/waw/adimComment?id=30293&from=Total%20Rewards%20News%20All

WorldatWork.org

Workplace Productivity Dips During Holidays

Dec. 17, 2008 — The holiday season makes our waistbands tighter and our productivity dip, according to a new study that found 62% of companies reported workplace productivity takes a holiday during the holidays.>

The Institute for Corporate Productivity’s (i4cp) study found that 70% of organizations see an interruption of workflow as a top concern during the holiday season, followed by distractions like gift giving and parties (48%), and employees taking more vacation time (45%).>

The survey also found that 15% of respondents said the current economic situation has made employees more reluctant to take earned time off over the holidays because they’re afraid it will reduce their job security status (61%), they will be seen as inessential to the company (56%), and they will be seen as lacking commitment to the company (47%).>

"During this economic crisis, and particularly with the holiday season upon us, improving productivity of the existing workforce is priority No. 1," said Dr. Mary Key of i4cp. "However, the key to improved productivity for most companies lies in improving the corporate culture. Nurturing and developing the survivors in the company is often overlooked in times like these but is essential to the cultural and competitive success of the organization long term.">

While production may be down, some companies welcome the down time by giving extra paid days off, organizing holiday activities, providing meals for those who have to work on holidays, encouraging employees to take their vacation and person time, and embracing the festive spirit and encouraging staff to have fun, among other activities.>

Survey methodologyThe Holiday Productivity Pulse survey was conducted by i4cp, in conjunction with HR.com, in November 2008. The total number of respondents was 419. >

Contents © 2008 WorldatWork. No part of this article may be reproduced, excerpted or redistributed in any form without express written permission from WorldatWork.

***********************************************************************
This posting was made my Jim Jacobs, President & CEO of Jacobs Executive Advisors. Jim also serves as Leader of Jacobs Advisors' Insurance Practice.