There are many misconceptions about the modern workplace, and we’re here to clear them up. Whether it’s about how you work or where you work, some things just aren’t true when it comes to working in an office environment. Below are four of the most common workplace misconceptions around.
1. The Little Things Don’t Make a Difference
This misconception is often found in large offices. No matter what size workplace you’re in, the truth is that the little details are often the most important. Whether that is little details in the way you design your office or the things that you do for your employees, when you care about your workplace it shows.
2. Money is Employees’ Biggest Motivator
Employers more times than not believe this misconception when it comes to motivating their employees. A lot of companies assume that if they pay their employee more they will produce better work and report greater job satisfaction. In reality, a study done by Boston Consulting Group found that when 200,000 employees were asked what contributed the most to their overall happiness in the workplace, salary came in at only number eight.
It’s not doubt that money can’t buy employees’ happiness or boost their motivation. Instead, most employees report that recognition is the number one factor in motivating them to do better at the workplace. Next time you want to motivate your employees try calling them out for a job well done.
3. 8-Hour Work Days Are More Productive
The misconception that employees who work longer get more done might be the most persistent myth that permeates nearly every modern workplace. People can only focus on a single task for 90 minutes at a time. After that employees start to lose motivation and their productivity levels plummet.
To combat this misconception, some companies have started implementing shorter work days and encouraging employees to take frequent short breaks throughout the day. This way, employees get more down and have more free time to focus on their mental health and well-being.
4. Remote Employees Perform Worse
Many workplaces are scared to hire remote employees or allow their current employees to work remotely because of the belief that an employee working outside of the office is less motivated and disengaged.
In fact, the opposite of this holds true. Remote employees are actually more engaged than their office dwelling counterparts. They’re also more productive too. A study done by Stanford University showed that remote employees were 13 percent more productive than office workers.
The next time you come across one of these four common misconceptions about the modern workplace, consider how these myths don’t always shed light on the entire truth. Understanding where misconceptions come from and how to combat them is the first step in creating a happy and productive workplace.
For more workplace tips and tricks, check out our latest blog post “Learning How to Stay Positive at Work.”