Q: With the holiday season approaching, I am concerned
employees are spending more and more time shopping online during
work hours. I do not want to be a Grinch, but how do I curb
this employee activity to make sure business does not suffer
because of lost productivity?
A: The most wonderful time of the year is upon us again. While
some brave the hustle and bustle of shopping in stores, others
check off their gift list using a computer or mobile device.
According to forecasts from the National Retail Federation, the
average person will complete about 39.5 percent of their shopping
on retail and other company websites, up from 38.8 percent last
year and the highest amount in the survey's history.
The reality is many of the shoppers breaking records will be at
work while they hunt for deals and buy online. This activity
presents a risk to businesses of lost productivity at the end of
the year, so employers are well advised to be proactive and set
reasonable and clear expectations about employees' personal
electronic communications while on the clock, so that employees are
clear on the boundaries of acceptable behavior.
Employers should have a well-drafted electronic communications
policy that addresses both employee use of any company equipment
including the internet and email systems, as well as time spent on
the clock on personal devices. Keep I mind that studies show that
when employers prohibit all personal activity on company systems,
employees simply turn to their own tablets or smartphones, where
they can spend even more time.
With policies in place, it's also a good time for a seasonal
reminder that any activity on company machines is monitored, and
that employees should have no expectation of privacy. It is also a
good time to remind employees about security of their personal
information as they make transactions online.
While it is technically possible for employers to block shopping
sites altogether during work hours or set up a specific computer
employees can use, most companies are better advised to find a more
balanced solution. Reminding employees about your policy, whatever
it may be, cautioning them about safe online transactions, and
asking them to use breaks and lunch time for shopping will go a
long way in supporting employee morale and instilling an atmosphere
of mutual respect through the holidays and beyond.
Published in the Union Leader - November 2013
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.