Chances are that by now you know what a Pikachu or Rattata is; there’s even a chance that you might’ve caught one already. Pokémania has revolutionized the gaming world overnight and it seems there’s a recharge zone or a Pokémon hotspot just about everywhere, including your office. But as tempting as it may be to “catch ‘em all,” is gaming in the workplace acceptable?
A recent survey by CareerBuilder found nearly a quarter (24 percent) of professionals admit to gaming on their smart phones while at work. It’s one of the top distractions in today’s workplace, only after texting and checking weather and news for updates. Thanks to Pokémon Go’s sudden popularity, this trend may very well push that percentage higher. It’s no surprise that gaming has crossed over from the digital realm and is beginning to affect employee productivity.
In fact, employers are beginning to issue notices to employees warning that gaming in the office can have disciplinary consequences. One employee recently took to social media to share his employer’s notice that read “we are paying you to work, not chase fictional video game characters with your cell phone all day. Save it for your break time or lunch. Otherwise you’ll have plenty of time unemployed to catch them all.”
Although this notice may not be necessary for every office, gaming should be a concern to employers as similar to any non-work related activity in the office, it can become a distraction.
Employers should ensure that productivity remains on track. If management finds gaming to be an issue, they should address it immediately. It may help to remind employees of their responsibilities as well as company policies regarding breaks and Internet usage, ahead of time before gaming becomes an issue. Three quick ways managers can prevent productivity problems before they start include:
- Relay the Rules: Employers should clearly define and communicate the company’s policies on acceptable use of mobile devices during business hours.
- Lead by Example: It all starts with management; supervisors should make a conscious effort to limit their smartphone distractions. If employees see their managers constantly using their mobile devices around the office, chances are they will follow suit.
- Let Them ‘Go’ (sometimes): Stepping away from the desk for a walk or a break can help boost both creativity and productivity. If employees are playing mid-day, it can be a great team-building opportunity to encourage a lunch break with colleagues; just remember to use discretion.
As with any trend, it’s hard to say how long Pokémon will be around. What can be said is that gaming (like any other recreational activity at work) is probably always best in moderation, especially in a professional setting.
Gaming in the office can be a great activity to bring employees together; if used responsibly, it could help foster teamwork and encourage creativity. On the other hand, if used excessively it could be counterproductive and bring problems to the office. The key for any employee is to find a balance between responsibility and entertainment.
It’s healthy to have fun but not at a job’s expense. Always remember that Pikachu can wait; you’ll have more fun finding it later rather than having to find a new job.
Megan Szczesny is metro market manager for Robert Half Technology, a provider of skilled IT professionals on a project and full-time basis. She has more than a decade of experience in the staffing industry and oversees the company’s technology staffing services operations in Hartford and Stamford.
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Friday Focus is an online-only weekly series of columns focusing on human resource, business legal issues, technology, and marketing. Interested in participating? Send an email to Keith Griffin at kgriffin@hartfordbusiness.com.
