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Not Everybody Works the Same Way

Businesses struggle with finding the right way: remote or hybrid working models vs. back-to-the-office initiatives are only some aspects of the debate whether Home Office is the ultimate productivity solution or a primary cause of failure. To find the right way, however, is at the heart of the problem: Not everyone thrives under the same conditions. Just as people have different learning styles, they also have varied working preferences, rhythms, and environments that bring out their best. Acknowledging and embracing these individual preferences can be the key to unlocking higher productivity, better job satisfaction, and more innovation in the workplace.



The Myth of the Universal Productivity Formula


The idea that productivity is driven by a fixed set of rules—starting early, working long hours, maintaining strict focus, and keeping an unbroken flow—has long been romanticized. But this overlooks a critical truth: people work differently, and their paths to success are varied.

  • Morning People vs. Night Owls: Some employees are at their peak early in the morning, while others do their best thinking later in the day. Forcing one group into the other’s schedule often results in burnout and disengagement.

  • Structure vs. Flexibility: Some thrive with detailed schedules and clear deadlines, while others prefer flexibility and creativity, finding more focus in less structured environments.



Understanding Work Rhythms


Every individual has a personal productivity rhythm, known as their chronotype, which dictates when they are most alert and focused. While some may work efficiently in short bursts of focused time, others may require longer, uninterrupted blocks. Understanding these rhythms is vital for maximizing productivity.

For example: Consider the employee who thrives on the Pomodoro technique (working in short, timed intervals with breaks) compared to someone who finds deep work best in long, undisturbed stretches. Neither approach is better than the other, but both require recognition and support.



Tailoring the Environment for Productivity


Physical and digital work environments also play a role in how individuals perform. Open offices may energize some employees, providing the social interaction they crave, while for others, they are distractions that disrupt focus. In the same vein, some may prefer working with ambient noise or music, while others need complete silence.

Offering flexibility in workspaces—whether it’s allowing remote work, setting up quiet zones, or permitting customization of workstations—can lead to better engagement and productivity.



The Role of Autonomy


One of the most important drivers of productivity is autonomy—the freedom to choose how and when one works. When employees are given the flexibility to align their work styles with their preferences, they are more likely to take ownership of their tasks and produce higher-quality results.


Examples of autonomy in practice:

  • Allowing employees to decide when they start their day, as long as goals are met.

  • Permitting flexible deadlines within broader project timeframes.

  • Supporting remote or hybrid work options for those who find home environments more conducive to focus.



The Importance of Communication


However, as important as honoring individual preferences is, clear communication between managers and teams is essential. Leaders need to understand each team member's unique preferences and discuss how they align with the team's goals. It’s not just about personal comfort but about finding the balance between individual needs and collective performance.



Tips for effective communication:

  • Regular one-on-one check-ins to discuss work preferences, struggles, and productivity rhythms.

  • Open dialogues about workload management and team collaboration expectations.

  • Encouraging employees to share how they work best and adapting project plans accordingly.



Embracing Flexibility for Better Results


Allowing for individuality in work preferences doesn't mean letting go of structure entirely. It means providing a framework of flexibility—one that respects personal differences while ensuring organizational goals are met.

Incorporating flexibility:

  • Core hours where collaboration is prioritized, but allowing individuals to complete focused work at their most productive times.

  • Diverse workspaces in the office or providing equipment for a more comfortable home office setup.

  • Customizable workflows, where employees can adjust how they manage tasks as long as deadlines and deliverables are clear.



Productivity Is Personal


Recognizing that productivity isn’t a universal formula but a deeply personal experience is the first step toward creating more dynamic, inclusive, and high-performing teams. By embracing and adapting to individual work preferences, organizations can unlock the full potential of their employees, resulting in greater engagement, creativity, and productivity across the board.

When productivity is personal, work becomes more meaningful—and more effective.



 

Author: Marc Breetzke M.A., M.A.

 
 
 

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