In a world which prizes innovation, multi-tasking has come to be a standard expectation. Those who successfully implement the concept of accomplishing more with less are hailed for their efficiencies and held in high esteem. While this may sound like the optimum solution for your payroll budget, it may be placing the overall success of your organization at risk and here is why.
1.) Priorities: Although interviews are often riddled with scenario questions focusing on how to handle equally important activities, the truth of the matter is that most individuals can truly only focus on one task at a time and do it well. So, if your best team member is being asked to choose between two high priority tasks, keep in mind that one will always take second place. Moreover, the repercussions of this are particularly significant with tasks involving greater complexity.
2.) Skill Sets: Keep in mind that while many individuals have multiple skill sets, that does not mean that each skill is practiced with equal aptitude. In other words, not only will one task be relegated to second place, there is the likelihood that this same task will also be performed with less expertise and engagement.
3.) Politics: Since few people can claim to have an absolute sense of objectivity, it is inevitable that politics become influential in the choices your team members must make. Tasks and projects that take precedence over another may be a decision based less upon the overall welfare of the organization and more about the perspective career advancement of the associate.
4.) Accountability: Ultimately, while recognizing the need to address and accomplish all assigned responsibilities, as the list grows longer, the bar may be lowered for certain tasks. If not, then the role risks becoming subject to employee disengagement and ultimately, high rates of turnover.
Solutions that encourage efficiency and engagement
1.) Review Job Descriptions: The first step in running an efficient organization is to make sure that the necessary functions of your business are being accomplished. Many role responsibilities shift to accommodate changing needs. Make sure that your written descriptions are accurate and feasible.
2.) Engage Outsourcing Options: If your organization is in need of expertise that is not currently being addressed, outsourcing options can be an excellent resource to fill in knowledge gaps without creating permanent expansions to your in-house workforce.
3.) Create Effective Communication: Creating effective communication can take numerous forms from in-house seminars that enhance and expand skills to redesigning procedures. Whether it is cross-generational, inter-departmental, or simply enhancing two-way dialogue, communication can be a significant influence in the overall success of a business.
While the demands of many down-sized organizations have created a mentality of accomplishing more goals with fewer resources, the ultimate cost may be to both quality and long-term survivability. Successful organizations prioritize efficiency with a balance of both productivity and effective employee engagement. Do your employees’ skill sets match their roles? Are role expectations reasonable, appropriately prioritized, and open to dialogue? Are there expertise gaps which are ignored or under-performed? For help exploring these questions and other ways in which you can avoid the multi-tasking myth, reach out to us at HR Affiliates and let us help you get started today.
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