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Gloucestershire Business News

'Addiction to smartphones is costing companies millions'

The average UK worker spends 120 hours per year using their smartphones in the workplace, according to research.

A survey of 2,012 adults in the UK has revealed that 84 per cent admit to using their smartphones during working hours.

The research carried out by gadgets and technology retailer LaptopsDirect.co.uk suggests that 78 per cent regularly respond to text messages during working hours, and 59 per cent regularly take personal phone calls while working.

More than a third (38 per cent) regularly check their social media accounts while in the workplace.

It also found that 52 per cent admit to answering instant messages via platforms such as Whatsapp and Facebook, and nine per cent have sent a Snapchat from their workplace.

Mark Kelly, marketing manager at LaptopsDirect.co.uk, said: "It's no surprise that we are addicted to our smartphones.

"However, overuse during working hours can add up, leaving a serious shortfall in productivity.

"Although companies monitor and prohibit the use of social media during the working day, the research shows that there is still a large amount of people continuing to use their device.

"Use of smartphones and social media in the workplace can lead to hundreds of thousands of hours in lost productivity per year, which could cost UK companies millions of pounds."

According to the survey, 44 per cent of respondents said their workplace permitted reasonable use of smartphones.

Those working in marketing were the worst culprits, with 98 per cent admitting to peeking at smartphones, followed by those working in information and communications (96 per cent).

The research found that 14 per cent of respondents have been told off for using smartphones at work, while four per cent have been disciplined for using them during work time.

What do you think? Email mark@moosemarketingandpr.co.uk 

Picture credit: pixabay

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