H1N1 Tops Obama, Michael Jackson and Healthcare Reform in Workplace Distractions

Nov. 19, 2009 - PRLog -- Chicago, IL.  – Every workday has its distractions.  Unfortunately, every workday’s distractions do not always consist of only the common day-to-day interruptions that are on the same level as co-workers’ email alerts and chatty colleagues.  Over the past year, for example, employees were challenged with focusing on work when America was about to make history in the presidential election and with mention of the first global pandemic since 1968.  Human Capital Management consulting firm HR Solutions, Inc. conducted an online poll recently, which asked respondents to choose the current event from this year that has caused them the most workplace distraction.  Respondents could choose from Obama becoming President, Michael Jackson’s death, the H1N1 Virus or the debate on healthcare reform.

Interestingly enough, the historical event that scored highest in the poll is still very current.  “H1N1” continues to appear in print news, on the Internet and on television, as preventative care and preparation announcements are released.  Fifty-one percent of those polled find this health hazard to have caused the most distraction at work.  Coming in a full 29 percentage points lower, 22 percent of respondents experienced the most workplace distraction as a result of the history made during the United States’ most recent presidential election.  Fifteen percent of people chose the healthcare reform debate, and 12 percent of voters found the most workplace distraction in light of Michael Jackson’s death.

When historical events such as those listed in the poll do occur, it is important for organizations to promote open communication with employees.  Whether management takes time to present on H1N1 precautions, or decides to watch the presidential announcement with their entire staff, strong communication lines can minimize certain distractions and allow for productivity to be maintained.

For further details on how organizations can work with workplace distractions to maintain productivity, or for additional information on HR Solutions’ online poll, please call 312-863-6151.

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About HR Solutions, Inc.: Noted for its comprehensive research and actionable data, HR Solutions, Inc. is an international Human Capital Management consulting firm located in Chicago, IL., specializing in Employee Engagement and Exit Survey design, implementation and results. For more information, please visit http://www.hrsolutionsinc.com or call 312-236-7170.