Blurred Boundaries: Connectivity Work Abuse

Let's address an issue affecting many professionals in the current work environment: the abuse of constant availability through technological tools. In a hyper-connected digital era, companies have adopted several applications and platforms to keep constant communication with their employees. Even public access applications and employee-owned tools are utilized by companies without any consultation or employee agreement.

Any of these options, turn into a 24x7 availability, with a significant cost to the health and well-being of workers, as well as an impact on their social and family life. Undeniably, technological tools like WhatsApp, Slack, emails, and other messaging apps have made easier communication and collaboration in the work environment. However, as these tools became omnipresent, the risk of employees being trapped in a culture where full-life availability is expected, also increases.

This constantly-available culture can produce devastating consequences for employees. Stress, fatigue, and burnout are just a few of the negative outcomes when workers can't disconnect and enjoy their deserved rest. When companies encourage a culture where employees are expected to respond messages at any hour, a perpetual state of being connected is created. This not only affects workers' mental and physical health but also hampers long-term productivity and creativity. Moreover, it can negatively impact employees' personal lives, leading to imbalances between work and family and undermining their motivation and sense of belonging to the organization.

The main cause lies in the lack of clear boundaries between work and personal time, as well as between employee-owned tools and those provided by organizations. In many cases, even having, for example, a company-provided mobile phone is considered justification for employees to stay connected and always available. The simple fact of using WhatsApp on their personal phone initiates the invasion. What begins as an occasional situation, often becomes a habit.

We are talking here about corporate ethics, which should be aligned with basic common sense, something that, as we know, is the least common of senses. Many areas now called "People", still fail to educate and set an example about the importance of establishing clear boundaries and respecting employees' personal time.

Some companies have recognized the problem and taken some "common-sense measures" to address it:

• Disconnection policies: Implementing policies that clearly define when employees are expected to be available and when they can/should disconnect without feeling any pressured to respond.
• Effective communication: Fostering transparent communication between employees and employers about availability and personal boundaries.
• Training and awareness: Educating leaders and managers about the importance of respecting personal spaces and promoting a balanced life-work culture.
• Encouraging responsible use of technological tools: Fostering employees to use these tools consciously and not abusing them during after working hours.
• Promoting work-life balance: Valuing employee well-being and recognizing that adequate rest can enhance productivity and job satisfaction.
• Providing company-owned tools and applications: Ensuring that these tools are only available during working hours.
• Establishing contact lines with WELLNESS departments: For those who feel their personal spaces are at risk and don't feel comfortable about setting boundaries by themselves.

Prioritizing employee well-being and establishing appropriate boundaries in digital communication are essential to create a healthy and sustainable work environment. Promoting responsible use of technological tools and valuing work-life balance are fundamental pillars to foster a positive and productive work atmosphere. Implementing disconnection policies, along with effective communication and proper training for leaders and managers, can make a significant difference in how employees perceive their relationship with the company.

Companies are responsible for building a culture that prioritizes employee well-being, promoting a more human and balanced approach to work.

What measures do you believe are most effective in addressing this issue in your company? Share your ideas below!

#DigitalDisconnection #WorkLifeBalance #EmployeeWellbeing #SustainableProductivity #PeopleCare