We all know that switching off smartphones and tablets is good for our mental and physical well-being but most seem to find it hard to disconnect. The trend towards remote working and agile working may mean that increasing number of workers are logging in during personal time. So is it time to disconnect?
A US survey from 2015 revealed that 30% of those surveyed confessed to checking work and personal emails in bed in the morning, 50% confessed to regularly checking their inbox whilst on holiday, 50% confessed to doing so whilst in the bathroom and 25% whilst driving!
A new law was introduced in France in January 2017 as the right to disconnect which is said to be a reaction to the digital overload of the modern workplace. Companies with more than 50 workers are obliged to open discussions with the workforce to put into place measures to regulate the use of electronic communications and tools. This is with a view to implementing a right to disconnect. Such a policy may have benefits and negatives.
I will be discussing the changing nature of the workplace in my forthcoming annual seminar this month and will also cover the changing use of IT/electronic devices. There are limited spaces remaining and the event is free, you can find out more here.
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