Did you know that the average office worker is productive for less than three hours per day? It’s a surprising statistic, but it highlights a common challenge: making the most of the workday without overwhelming employees.

Boosting productivity in today’s workplace requires more than just demanding results—it’s about creating an environment where employees can thrive. With the right strategies, you can help your team stay focused, motivated, and efficient, all while maintaining balance and well-being.

In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 ways to boost productivity at work in 2025.

What Is Employee Productivity?

Employee productivity measures the value an individual generates within a set period. It's not just about how many hours are worked but about the quality of work and impact on business growth. Productive employees are able to focus on essential tasks and achieve their goals efficiently without wasting time or energy.

For instance, a productive sales representative might close more deals in fewer hours by prioritizing high-value leads. Similarly, a content writer can produce engaging, SEO-optimized articles faster by using efficient research and drafting techniques.

Boosting productivity at work benefits both employees and organizations. Here's why it matters:

• Improved business outcomes - Higher productivity leads to better results with fewer resources, directly impacting revenue and growth.

• Enhanced employee satisfaction - When employees feel they're accomplishing meaningful work, morale improves, and job satisfaction increases.

• Efficient use of time and resources - Productivity guarantees resources like time, tools, and technology are used effectively, reducing waste.

Consider this: Disengaged employees contribute to $8.9 trillion in lost productivity globally each year. Prioritizing productivity doesn't just benefit the bottom line—it also creates a more motivated and fulfilled workforce.

What Causes Low Productivity at Work?

Identifying the root causes of low productivity can help you address them. Here are some common challenges that hold employees back:

• Unclear goals - When employees don’t know what’s expected of them, it’s hard to stay focused and meet deadlines.

• Poor communication - Misunderstandings and lack of feedback can slow progress and create unnecessary confusion.

• Too many distractions - Frequent interruptions, like constant notifications or back-to-back meetings, break concentration and waste time.

• Burnout and stress - Overloaded employees often feel drained, making it hard to stay motivated and productive.

• Lack of tools or training - Without the right resources or support, employees struggle to complete their own tasks efficiently.

These issues don’t just impact individual performance—they can also affect team morale and overall business success. Addressing them is key to building a happier, more productive workplace.

How to Measure Employee Productivity

Employee productivity is more than just counting hours worked or tasks completed. It’s about the value employees bring to their roles. Measuring productivity helps you understand where improvements are needed and how to better support your team.

Some common ways to measure employee productivity include tracking the number of goals met, comparing completed work to the time and resources required, and assessing the overall quality of work produced.

You can also use broader metrics to evaluate team productivity trends:

• High turnover rates may indicate burnout or inefficiencies, which can impact productivity.

• Strategy comprehension rates show how well employees understand company goals—low rates often lead to time spent on irrelevant tasks.

Combining these methods gives you a clearer understanding of where your team excels and where they need support to perform at their best.

10 Ways to Boost Productivity at Work in 2025

If your team struggles to meet goals or could use more focus and efficiency, it’s time to act. Here are 10 proven ways to boost productivity at work and create a thriving, motivated workforce.

1. Set Clear and Achievable Goals

Employees perform best when they have a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities. However, only 41% of employees strongly agree that their job is important to their organization's mission.

For example, instead of assigning a vague target like “increase sales,” set specific and measurable objectives: “Close five new client accounts this quarter, focusing on leads in the technology sector.”

Actionable plans and regular check-ins can help your team set realistic expectations and align employees with organizational goals. Tools like OKRs (Objectives and Key Results) are especially useful for tracking progress and ensuring clarity.

2. Provide Training and Growth Opportunities

Investing in training and growth opportunities enhances both confidence and productivity. Employees who feel supported in their development are more likely to stay engaged and deliver higher-quality work.

According to LinkedIn’s Workplace Learning Report, 94% of employees said they would stay longer at a company that invests in their career development.

Investing in training shows your commitment to both physical and mental health—ensuring employees are equipped with the skills they need to succeed, reducing stress, and fostering a work environment focused on growth.

3. Embrace Flexible Work Options

Flexible work options have become a cornerstone of modern productivity. A study by McKinsey found that 87% of employees would take the opportunity to work flexibly if given the choice. When employees have control over where and when they work, they’re often more focused and efficient.

For example: Allow employees to choose their most productive hours or offer hybrid work models where they can balance in-office and remote work.

Flexibility reduces burnout and improves work-life balance, which leads to better performance and employee engagement. Incorporating tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams can help teams stay connected and collaborative, regardless of location.

4. Minimize Distractions

Distractions are a major productivity killer. Research shows that it takes an average of 23 minutes to regain focus after an interruption.

Start by encouraging employees to set boundaries for focus time. For instance, using "Do Not Disturb" features on communication tools like Slack can help minimize interruptions during deep work.

You can also create a distraction-free environment by addressing common workplace disruptions. Noise-canceling headphones, quiet zones, or designated collaboration times can go a long way.

Finally, consider implementing productivity apps that block non-work-related websites during specific hours, promoting sustained concentration.

5. Recognize Achievements

Recognition is a powerful motivator. Employees who feel valued are more likely to stay engaged and productive. In fact, research shows that 69% of employees would work harder if they felt their efforts were better appreciated.

It doesn’t have to be elaborate. A simple shoutout during a team meeting, a personalized thank-you note, or a public acknowledgment in a Slack channel can make a significant impact.

For larger accomplishments, consider offering tangible rewards such as gift cards, additional time off, or professional development opportunities. 

6. Use Short, Fun Activities to Recharge

Taking meaningful breaks during the workday helps employees reset and return to tasks with renewed focus. A study by DeskTime shows that the most productive workers follow the 52/17 rule—working for 52 minutes and taking a 17-minute break.

Tools like Braid make these breaks more engaging and impactful. This Slack app offers quick games like Trivia, Word Link, and Typing Test tailored to different team preferences. These activities are perfect for re-energizing employees, boosting morale, and fostering collaboration.

For example:

• Start meetings with an icebreaker like Word Link to spark creativity.

• Use the Typing Test for friendly competition during afternoon lulls.

• Help employees reset with a solo Picture Puzzle after long tasks.

Adding Braid to your Slack workspace is simple:

1. Add Braid to Slack from the website

2. Authorize permissions

3. Start your first game

Braid’s library of games caters to different personalities, making sure everyone finds an activity that fits their style. These quick, fun breaks help your team stay productive and connected—all without derailing the workday.

Schedule a demo with Braid today to bring meaningful recharges to your team!

7. Encourage Continuous Feedback

Open communication builds trust and keeps employees aligned with their goals. Regular feedback sessions help managers address challenges early, recognize progress, and provide actionable insights. 

Research indicates that 96% of employees believe receiving regular feedback is a good thing.

For instance, schedule weekly or bi-weekly one-on-one meetings to review performance, discuss challenges, and identify growth opportunities. Create a space for two-way conversations where employees can also share feedback about workflows or leadership. 

8. Stop Micromanaging

Micromanagement stifles productivity by eroding trust and autonomy. Employees who feel overly monitored are less likely to take initiative and more prone to stress. 

A study found that 85% of employees believe their morale suffers when subjected to micromanagement.

Instead, focus on empowering your team. Set clear expectations and allow employees the freedom to approach tasks in their own way. Regularly scheduled check-ins can replace constant oversight, giving employees the support they need while maintaining their independence. 

9. Improve Onboarding

Effective onboarding sets the tone for an employee's experience and productivity. In fact, a well-structured onboarding process can increase new hire retention by 82% and productivity by over 70%.

For example, providing clear training materials, assigning mentors, and setting achievable milestones during the first few months can help employees adapt faster and feel more confident in their roles.

Whether you’re onboarding remotely or in person, personalized support and resources ensure new team members can hit the ground running.

10. Foster Collaboration Without Overloading Meetings

Team collaboration is essential for innovation and efficiency, but too many meetings can harm productivity. Research reveals that employees spend an average of 31 hours per month in unproductive meetings.

Instead of defaulting to meetings, encourage asynchronous communication. Tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or Trello allow team members to update each other on projects without scheduling calls. Shared dashboards or recorded updates can keep everyone informed while saving time.

When meetings are necessary, make them count. Set clear agendas, invite-only key participants, and stick to time limits. Always end with actionable takeaways to make sure the meeting drives progress.

Achieve More, Stress Less With Braid!

Helping your team stay productive doesn’t have to mean working harder or longer hours. Small changes—like clear goals, meaningful breaks, and team connection—can make a big difference in how your team feels and performs.

Tools like Braid make it easy to bring those changes to life. Whether it’s a quick mental reset or a fun team activity, Braid helps you create a workplace where productivity and well-being go hand in hand.

Ready to see the difference? Schedule a demo with Braid today and help your team stay refreshed, engaged, and productive, all without the stress of burnout.

FAQs About Boost Productivity at Work

How do you improve your productivity at work?

Start by setting clear, realistic goals and breaking tasks into smaller steps. Take regular breaks to recharge, avoid multitasking, and focus on one thing at a time. Small resets, like quick games or mental breaks, can also help you stay energized and focused.

How do employees increase productivity?

Employees can improve workplace productivity by managing their time effectively, prioritizing important tasks, and minimizing distractions. Taking short, meaningful breaks and using tools like Braid’s team activities can improve focus and bring fresh energy to the day.

Why do I struggle to be productive at work?

You might struggle with enhancing productivity because of unclear priorities, too many distractions, or burnout. Taking short breaks, setting simple goals, and finding ways to refresh your mind—like playing a quick game or stepping away for a few minutes—can help you refocus.

How can business leaders support team productivity?

Business leaders can boost employee productivity by setting clear goals, creating a healthy work environment, and providing access to effective collaboration tools. Encouraging regular breaks, recognizing achievements, and offering flexible schedules can help teams stay motivated, improve productivity, and avoid burnout.