Distractions at work can be a huge hindrance, yet somewhat unavoidable. You could be working so hard to beat a deadline or struggling to focus to get that particular project right, however the noise from your co-worker’s computer or murmurs from office talk are diverting your attention.
How do you deal with such a situation then?
Without coming off as aloof, one can find ways of setting boundaries at work. This comes in handy when handling ‘office talk.’ Find appropriate moments to socialise with co-workers, however, make it clear that you are unavailable when busy and occupied with work.
According to Dedan Kwizera an accountant by profession, office distractions can be a real challenge in the workplace.
Some co-workers can choose to play music without headsets on, yet confronting them about it can turn into a conflict. So you decide to deal with it, but this can affect your productivity obviously, he says.
"Others can mean to talk on phone for long hours and worse, loudly. Such habits can be distracting but also irritating.”
Kwizera therefore recommends for employees to educate themselves on what office protocol is and practice it. "Some of these things are basic, but they are really important at work and for others to thrive.”
It’s the simple things that can affect productivity, says Divine Mahoro, an office assistant.
Office noise can come off as natural and a general part of the work environment, but it is an issue that the human resource of any company should always look into, she says.
Mahoro shares that some jobs require concentration for employees to be productive, which means any clamour, can mean a lot of distraction.
Strategies to regain focus
An article on ‘How to Stop Office Chatter When You Need to Focus’ recommends taking advantage of technology. Put on a pair of noise-cancelling headphones, which can drown out distracting noises with quiet music or sounds. If you find music or sounds are too distracting, try a white-noise or sound-masking version to regain your concentration.
Be direct. Tell co-workers when you need some space. But think before you speak. Don't fall into the trap of an emotional outburst when you're at your wits end. Keep the conversation positive, maintain a sense of humour and avoid being judgmental, the article quotes Lynn Taylor, author of "Tame Your Terrible Office Tyrant: How to Manage Childish Boss Behaviour and Thrive in Your Job.
Seek help. If noise is a big problem, look to higher-ups for assistance. Poll co-workers to make sure you're not the only one who finds the noise level distracting and then approach HR. If you've tried everything else and have had limited success, you can always craft a persuasive argument for your boss suggesting you be moved to another part of the office, she says.