Personal Matters During Work Hours Could Cost Lithuanian Businesses Dearly

A recent analysis by CVMarket.lt sheds light on a pervasive issue within Lithuania's business sector: the significant cost incurred by employees engaging in personal activities during paid work hours. The study estimates that this practice could drain up to 240 million euros from the Lithuanian economy each month, a figure that demands attention from employers and policymakers alike.

The data reveals that while the average employee dedicates about 28 minutes per day to personal matters, a notable minority—over 10%—spends more than an hour. This smaller group accounts for a disproportionate amount of the total time lost, highlighting a need for targeted management strategies. Interestingly, the study also points out that not all time spent on personal matters necessarily translates to a direct business loss, as short breaks can sometimes enhance productivity.

Age appears to be a significant factor, with younger employees (ages 25-34) spending the most time on personal tasks, averaging 42.8 minutes daily. This contrasts with older age groups, who tend to dedicate less time. The primary justification provided by employees for these diversions is the need for a mental break or a change of pace from work tasks, a finding supported by international research suggesting that brief pauses can boost efficiency.

Another common reason is the necessity of handling personal errands, often due to limited operating hours of service providers coinciding with standard work schedules. While some employees view personal time during work as a norm, or simply have excess time, the underlying reasons often point to a need for better work-life integration and management. This Lithuanian perspective emphasizes that addressing this issue requires not just stricter oversight, but also a nuanced understanding of employee well-being and workplace dynamics.

“

Remdamiesi šiuo rodikliu, vidutiniu darbo užmokesčiu ir dirbtų valandų skaičiumi Lietuvoje, apskaičiavome, kad darbuotojų asmeniniams reikalams darbo metu skiriamas laikas Lietuvos verslui gali kainuoti iki 240 mln. eurų per mėnesį