The phrase "multi-task" is really wearing thin these days, I think.

Rynn Strange

April 28,2022 at 12:46PM UTC

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The phrase "multi-task" is really wearing thin these days, I think. Someone here has even mentioned that it's code for overworked (and underpaid?). I'm thinking there is no such thing as being able to multi-task, as it runs the risk of substandard performance, lack of focus and concentration, failure to pay attention to detail, etc., etc. What is your take? In your experience, is there such a thing? If so, how do you accomplish it? If not, how do you organize your workload? There's no specific reason for this question; I've just pondered it lately.

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AnonymousApril 28,2022 at 12:59PM UTC
I agree it's hard to know in a job description if the word "multitasking" means being able to consecutively work on several projects in various stages of completion, or if you're expected to perform well even if you're constantly thrown numerous high-priority projects at once. I use it to describe the former, as I few projects are assigned and completed in a day and most jobs require people to perform more than one skill.
Rebecca AliApril 28,2022 at 1:00PM UTC
I think research has shown that you're right - there's no such thing as being able to "multi-task". I think it's called micro-attention (switching)? You are actually shifting attention every few seconds to a new task which is not terribly efficient or effective. That's why you see more people blocking time for focused work. https://www.hcamag.com/nz/news/general/why-hr-should-never-encourage-multi-tasking/151089
AnonymousApril 28,2022 at 2:28PM UTC
I concur! I have found that blocking focus time on my calendar has helped me balance as well. It allows down time from multiple meetings / discussions that is needed to actually accomplish tasks.
Sabrina CortesApril 28,2022 at 1:14PM UTC
You made some good points about what multi-tasking can mean. For me, it means that you can juggle multiple tasks and it goes hand-in-hand with prioritizing them as well. This way a person has a starting point and can cross things off the list when they are finished.
For example, I used to be an Executive Assistant and there are plenty of things to do in that role -- organize and return emails, answer the phone, greet customers, schedule and order lunches, maintain and update files, process mail, schedule office machine maintenance, order and restock office supplies, and assisting with other projects from the CEO. Depending on the day, I'd prioritize those tasks. Answering the phones and greeting customers was always #1, then writing and sending correspondence, returning emails, filing/ordering office supplies, etc.
That's how I always pictured it to be. Maybe it's changed with the times, I don't know.
AnonymousApril 28,2022 at 1:43PM UTC
I believe more when people say multi-task is to handle multiple projects/tasks with varying deadlines. Handling multiple projects, deadlines, tasks within the same day not necessarily doing them at the same time. Paying attention to Project 1 from 8-10 and then project 2 from 10-12 but answering emails during that time about both. That type of thing.
They have done studies proving you physically cannot multi-task because you can only focus on one thing at a time. Can you quickly jump from project to project within seconds? Absolutely but by definition they found that wasn't multi tasking.