However, now the tide of opinion seems to be changing – away from multi-tasking and back in favour of focusing on doing just one thing at a time.
While it is certainly possible to multi-task (indeed mothers of young children have been practicing this skill for generations), when it comes to business I don’t think you can beat focusing on one task to get the best results.
Have you ever been on the phone and heard the person at the other end of the line typing or mouse-clicking during your call? How did that make you feel? I was a guest on a teleclass a few months back where the call was open so all callers could take part. Not only could I hear the sounds of someone typing, they then made a phone call and every word of the conversation could be heard. I thought this was so rude as it spoilt the call for the other participants and ruined the recording.
I know a lot of people share live events with their Twitter followers. I’m in awe at their ability to do this during seminars whilst still taking in all the learning points, because I can’t type a message and pay full attention to what’s being said – both at the same time.
Just because we can multi-task, doesn’t mean it’s necessarily a good thing to do.
- It’s polite to give your full attention to someone who has taken the time and trouble to call you, or to accept your call.
- It’s safer to give your full attention to driving your vehicle and leave phone calls and texts until after you reach your destination.
- It’s more efficient to give your full attention to one task at a time – you will finish it quicker and the end result will be better.
Where do you stand on this issue? Multi-tasking or Focus? Let me know by commenting below.
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