The traditional ‘watercooler moment’ in the workplace may be on its way out, with only one in 10 employees now engaging in casual chats at this once-essential office fixture.
However, these personal exchanges, whereever they’re happening, remain crucial for productivity with discussions about weekend activities, weather and Netflix recommendations a key way to key employees motivated.
This insight comes from research commissioned by Jakemans, which emphasises the positive effect of such interactions on employee morale and focus for the week ahead.
As they settle into the workweek, 64% of workers enjoy catching up with their colleagues before diving into their tasks on a Monday, with 67% feeling more motivated when surrounded by friends.
Dr Lynda Shaw, a behavioural neuroscientist, leadership psychologist and spokesperson for the throat lozenge brand, said: “After a weekend of activities with family and friends, it’s helpful to get our heads into ‘work-mode’ on Monday morning.”
“This means those seemingly ‘unimportant’ conversations are actually extremely important to ensure we have the opportunity to download our thoughts with someone willing to be a sounding board. Of course, this should be a mutual exercise, and once achieved we can get on with work.”
“Working from home means we need those Monday morning conversations even more, so, making sure we have them with others, even online, means we will feel far more motivated.”
A recent study revealed that nearly eight out of 10 working adults view their colleagues as ‘friends’ outside of the office and a whopping 86% believe it’s crucial to maintain good personal relationships with their co-workers.
A significant 22% stay in touch with their work friends over the weekend and a staggering 73% regularly engage in text or WhatsApp chats, while one in four (26%) meet up in person.
Coffee break chats (31%), shared office lunches (25%) and having a laugh over common challenges (24%) are the office moments that workers cherish sharing with their colleagues.
Elizabeth Hughes-Gapper, spokesperson for Jakemans, commented: “Our relationships and conversations are what boosts our morale for the week ahead.
“We rely on them to keep us motivated and could be the contributing factors as to why Mondays seem to be the day people find most productive.
“What’s clear from the research is the importance of keeping our voices in tip-top condition, meaning you don’t have to miss out on the motivation that these conversations bring.
“Like any part of our bodies, it’s important to look after our voice, particularly in the coming months where sore throats and coughs will likely increase in the office.”
