A new Microsoft study reveals that employees are interrupted every two minutes on average, disrupting productivity and focus. The research, released on May 19, 2025, analyzed workplace communication patterns across thousands of workers using Microsoft Teams and other tools.
Key Findings
- Employees receive notifications—emails, chats, or calls—every 120 seconds during work hours.
- 67% of workers report difficulty concentrating due to constant interruptions.
- Multitasking caused by frequent disruptions leads to a 14% drop in task efficiency.
Why It’s Happening
The rise of remote and hybrid work has increased reliance on digital communication tools. While these platforms enhance collaboration, they also create a flood of notifications. Microsoft found that the average employee juggles 32 active chats daily, with many feeling pressured to respond instantly.
What Microsoft Suggests
To combat this, Microsoft recommends:
- Using "focus mode" features to mute non-urgent notifications.
- Scheduling dedicated "deep work" blocks without interruptions.
- Encouraging teams to set clear communication norms, like delaying non-critical messages.
Constant interruptions are eroding workplace productivity, but intentional tech use and better habits can help. Microsoft’s findings highlight the need for balance in an increasingly connected work environment.