Tech Tips to Manage Distractions in the Workplace

Published on: February 1st, 2020

If you feel like you could be more focused at work, you aren’t alone. Seventy-four percent of millennials report being distracted at work for a multitude of reasons. If you’re thinking about taking the initiative to be more productive at work, but aren’t sure where to start, don’t fret! You may need a few adjustments or additions in your office to get you back up to speed. Check out our list of tech tips to manage distractions at work.

5 Tech Tips to Manage Distractions

Distractions can come from anywhere. Sometimes they’re external, a chatty coworker or a less-than-functional office space. While other times, the issue is internal. Burnout, anxiety, and personal problems can also impact your productivity. If you need a little help getting in the right mindset, read over these five tips to avoid distractions in the office and make your days more constructive than ever before.

1. Turn off Notifications

   The average employee deals with interruptions in the workplace 56 times a day. Altogether, you can end up spending two hours a day recovering from said interruptions. One way to crack down on disruptions is by committing to single-tasking. You can accomplish this by turning off social media notifications, putting your mobile device in a drawer, and learning that you don’t have to respond to emails as soon as they enter your inbox.

   While you may not realize it, the constant influx of notifications from emails, text messages, and social media are stressful for your brain. As you train yourself to focus, you should find more focus both internally and externally.

2. Tune Out Office Noise

   If you’re the type of person who enjoys listening to music or podcasts while you work, wireless headphones may be the solution for you. On the other hand, if you need silence to focus, then noise-canceling headphones could do the trick. Either way, you’re less likely to be distracted by coworkers if you can’t overhear their conversations.

3. Set a Timer

   With your notifications off, give yourself a set time limit to complete a task. If you know that the end is in sight, it can be easier to get in the zone for the time you’ve allotted. Try this method for responding to emails and working on larger projects, rather than hopping between tasks every minute.

4. Try Tech Accessories that Keep You Organized

   Having an organized desk is not only aesthetically pleasing, but it can also make your workday more efficient. Keep your workspace fresh and clean by limiting wires and investing in a Bluetooth keyboard, mouse, or other accessories. It’s a small change, but it will make a massive difference in your day-to-day tasks.

5. Set Clear Guidelines for Technology Use

   One of the most powerful ways to manage distractions is to have a clear set of guidelines about when and how to use technology in your workplace. Recognize that technology can both help and hinder, and make sure that you’re making it an asset for your business. By taking a close look at the tools and gadgets your business is using, you can ensure that the technology you’re using is boosting productivity.

If problems with your technology are holding you back from your full potential, contact your local Computer Troubleshooters office. Our suite of business solutions can manage tech issues remotely, bring the advantages of Cloud services to your business, and more. Get in touch today to learn how we can save you technology headaches while improving productivity!