If using a social networks aggregator and monitoring the time you spend in visiting social network sites are of no use in preventing yourself or your employees from doing counterproductive social networking, how about imposing break times without computer use?
This idea is from one article I've read about goofing off for productivity. The basis is that although what was emphasized is that Internet surfing during break times was learned to be good in boosting productivity, it will take a great deal of discipline to only limit the time in enjoying the online world.
Rita Emmett, 'The Procrastinator's Handbook' author stressed, "But to me, computer time is so warped. If you're going to help me with something on the computer and you say that it's only going to take 20 minutes, the next time we look at the clock three hours will have gone by. It's magic.
"So, it would take fabulous self-discipline, great boundary setting or some kind of system, like a timer. A break is good, but I think that's a dangerous break."
Ms. Emmett mentioned that if an employee uses his or her break time in non-Internet activities such as coffee breaks with colleagues, it will be different because you're going to get back to your post sooner otherwise people will see you.
This might be a viable idea in dealing with social network addiction, don't you think? Willing ourselves to get a cup of coffee and go mingle with (hopefully cool) co-workers more often instead of keeping tabs on our MySpace or Facebook friends might just work.
image credits to Karen Breitenbach
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