How Enterprise Social Networks Impact Mental Toughness & Cyberslacking

• A research work by Dr. Ritika Gugnani

In today’s fast-paced corporate world, technology serves as a double-edged sword. It enhances connectivity and productivity but also introduces challenges such as cyberslacking. Cyberslacking refers to the use of the internet and social media for personal purposes during work hours, a prevalent issue in many workplaces where employees might get distracted by non-work-related websites or social media, leading to a decrease in productivity. However, new research suggests that this challenge can be transformed into an opportunity for growth.

Ritika Gugani,  Professor and Dean-Academics at Jaipuria Institute of Management, Noida, conducted an in-depth study to explore how Enterprise Social Networks (ESNs) can influence workplace behavior. The research delves into how ESNs can enhance employee performance and well-being by impacting two key aspects: mental toughness and cyber slacking.

Understanding Enterprise Social Networks

Enterprise Social Networks, or ESNs, are online platforms used within organizations to improve communication and collaboration among employees. These networks function similarly to social media but are specifically designed for internal corporate use. Employees can post updates, share documents, join discussions, and collaborate on projects in real time, making ESNs a powerful tool for enhancing workplace interaction.

However, ESNs are not just about communication. They offer a structured platform where employees can engage in meaningful dialogue, share ideas, and collaborate effectively. Gugani’s research seeks to understand how these platforms impact mental toughness and cyberslacking within the workplace.

The Dual Focus: Mental Toughness and Cyberslacking

The study focuses on two critical aspects of workplace behavior:

• Mental Toughness: This trait is defined as the ability to withstand stress and pressure, maintaining performance under challenging conditions. In today’s demanding work environment, mental toughness is essential as it enables employees to manage stress more effectively, stay focused on tasks, and persevere in the face of challenges. Enhanced mental toughness not only improves individual performance but also contributes to the overall success of an organization.
• Cyberslacking: This term refers to the tendency of employees to use the internet and social media for personal reasons during work hours. While cyberslacking can negatively impact productivity, Gugani’s research explores whether ESNs can help mitigate this issue by offering a more structured and engaging environment for employees.

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Key Findings: ESNs as a Catalyst for Mental Toughness

The research findings suggest that ESNs can significantly boost mental toughness among employees. By providing a sense of community and support, ESNs encourage positive interactions that help employees build resilience and better cope with workplace stress. The structured environment of ESNs fosters collaboration and real-time feedback, which are crucial for developing a mentally tough workforce.

For example, in a high-pressure project scenario, employees using ESNs to share their progress, seek help, and offer encouragement to one another were found to manage stress more effectively. This real-time interaction through ESNs helps maintain focus and resilience, crucial elements of mental toughness.

The Complex Impact on Cyberslacking

The research also sheds light on the mixed effects of ESNs on cyberslacking. While some employees might use ESNs for non-work-related activities during work hours, leading to potential distractions, others leverage these platforms strictly for professional purposes. This dual outcome suggests that the impact of ESNs on cyberslacking varies based on factors such as individual self-discipline, workplace culture, and the presence of clear guidelines regarding ESN usage.

Interestingly, the study indicates a decrease in cyberslacking behaviors among employees who actively use ESNs. The accountability and visibility within these networks appear to discourage non-work-related activities, promoting a more focused and productive work environment.

Practical Implications for Organizations

Gugani’s research offers valuable insights for organizations looking to maximize the benefits of ESNs while minimizing their potential downsides:

• Leveraging ESNs for Mental Toughness: Organizations can use ESNs to foster a supportive environment that enhances mental toughness among employees. By promoting positive engagement and structured use of these platforms, companies can help employees develop resilience and adaptability, which are essential for managing workplace stress.
• Minimizing Cyberslacking: To address the issue of cyberslacking, organizations should implement clear policies that define the acceptable use of ESNs during work hours. Encouraging a culture of accountability and self-regulation can further ensure that ESNs are used productively.

Conclusion: From Slack to Strength

Ritika Gugani’s research underscores the transformative potential of ESNs in the workplace. While these platforms can be powerful tools for enhancing mental toughness, they also present challenges in the form of potential distractions. The key for organizations lies in striking the right balance—leveraging the strengths of ESNs to foster resilience and teamwork while implementing strategies to minimize their potential for misuse.

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By embracing ESNs thoughtfully, companies can create a work environment that is both productive and supportive, leading to better outcomes for employees and the organization as a whole. This research highlights the importance of integrating technology in a way that empowers employees, turning challenges like cyberslacking into opportunities for growth and development.

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