Social networking addictions are getting in the way for a growing number of Australians. In order to keep up with their Facebook contacts, Aussies are spending countless business hours on keeping up their online activities. Virtual communications are gobbling up so much of the 9-5 workday that its costing companies downunder an estimated A$5 billion ($4 billion) a year.
"We looked at a typical Facebook user's online time, which is about an hour a day. Some people use much more than an hour a day," said Dr. Richard Cullen of SurfControl. The company looked at the average weekly wage and the number of companies in Australia to calculate the the hefty figure.
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Social Networking Addictions
- Opportunity to develop innovative solutions to help individuals manage and reduce their social networking addictions.
- Virtual Communications
- Disruptive innovation opportunity to create more efficient and productive virtual communication platforms for business professionals.
- Workplace Productivity
- Opportunity to develop tools and strategies that enhance workplace productivity and minimize distractions caused by social media.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Technology
- The technology industry can explore creating software and applications that promote responsible social media usage and improve productivity for businesses.
- Human Resources
- Human resources industry has an opportunity to develop policies and initiatives that address social networking addictions in the workplace and help employees find a healthier work-life balance.
- Education and Training
- Education and training industry can provide workshops and resources to educate employees on the importance of managing online activities and optimizing workplace productivity.
