Many people think that they can get more things done in a day by multitasking. It makes perfect sense – if you’re always doing more than one task at a time, you’ll be able to accomplish more in less time. Well it turns out that this theory, however logical it may seem, is wrong. Studies show that multitasking is a productivity killer. The amount of time spent cleaning up mistakes from work that was produced with divided attention is typically greater than the amount of time the same work would take when executed with a person’s focused, undivided attention.
Another reason to avoid multitasking – particularly in a setting where you’re working with other people, such as a meeting or phone call – is that it shows a lack of respect. In the sales world, this is a real rapport-killer, and we all know how important it is to build good rapport with your prospects and clients.
Don’t let multitasking kill your productivity or sour your relationships. Stay focused on the task at hand. To find out more information on “The True Time Cost of Multitasking,” check out this article by Fast Company.
