3 things to know about procrastination in the workplace

Procrastination has the potential to strike any workplace.

If you notice certain tasks just aren’t getting done or that there is a lack of productivity amongst your staff, your team members might have a problem with procrastination.

Here are three things you should know about it so you can work on fixing the issue.

1 – People procrastinate for different reasons

In your office you likely have different types of procrastinators.

One person may delay tackling certain tasks for the sole reason they are easily distracted.

Another staff member, however, may avoid particular duties due to a lack of confidence or fear of doing the task. They might be afraid of failure or feel overwhelmed by the task.

It’s best to figure out what the motivation is in each instance of procrastination and tackle the root cause.

2 – Encouraging time management measures can help

You are likely to see results when you let your staff know you are aware of procrastination and state you are going to work on time management as a company or department.

You could consider formal time management training for your employees, hold brainstorm groups or discuss the matter one-on-one with your team member.

When the root cause for procrastination seems to be a lack of confidence or understanding, make sure your team member gets input and help from the right people.

If you make individuals accountable for their procrastination they are more likely to front up and do the work.

3 – There are ways to spot a procrastinator

Too busy to figure out who the office procrastinators are? There are a few tell-tale signs to watch out for.

They include always having an excuse as to why something hasn’t been done, taking more breaks or longer lunches, spending excessive time surfing the web and slow responses to phone calls and emails. Their attitude towards the work that needs to be done may also become negative.

Once you are armed with knowledge about workplace procrastination, you’re in a position to put it to a stop.