Desk bombing, a workplace trend, can disturb the new generation?

As the name implies, "desk bombing" occurs when coworkers approach another coworker's desk unannounced. It could be for a variety of reasons, such as seeking assistance with some work, clarifying work-related doubts, or simply starting an informal conversation.

Desk bombing, a workplace trend, can disturb the new generation?

Ramesh works as a sales manager was working on a spreadsheet at his desk when Amit, a colleague from across the hall, appeared with a printout and some questions. He pulls up a chair and sits next to Ramesh, asking him to clarify some questions about the sales figures.

Five minutes later, Rohan, another colleague, stops by Ramesh’s desk on his way back to his desk with a cup of coffee and congratulates him on being named “employee of the month.“

Rohan asks Ramesh, leaning against his table, how many times he has been chosen for the award. Soon, the three are debating the award’s selection criteria.

Ramesh had been ‘desk bombed’ here.

The question for a culture builder in the organisation is whether Ramesh appreciated being interrupted by Rohan and Amit while he was working on something important, or whether he saw them as a welcome distraction from his work.

As the name implies, “desk bombing” occurs when coworkers approach another coworker’s desk unannounced. It could be for a variety of reasons, such as seeking assistance with some work, clarifying work-related doubts, or simply starting an informal conversation.

Desk bombing can also occur when coworkers gather to celebrate an employee’s accomplishments, a promotion, or a work anniversary. A common practice, but how do you and your organisation see it moving forward if some are working on a critical task?

A general answer is that whether or not ‘popping up’ at someone’s desk with serious work-related questions or even casual conversation is an acceptable workplace practice depends on the company culture.

Acceptance of such a practice or culture will, in fact, vary by industry and will also be determined by the individual preferences of employers and employees.

A more informal and open-door approach is preferred in some workplaces, particularly in small setups or startup companies, with colleagues and superiors being accessible and approachable for quick questions or discussions.

However, we believe that it is critical at this time to have an organisational environment and culture in which employees feel comfortable and valued. It should, however, be acceptable throughout an organisation, but only for formal, official conversion.

Desk bombing is more than just casual conversation or taking a break from formal emails. It’s more about responding quickly to people’s concerns and questions.

“However, some multinational organisations rely on email communication, in India, but rarely, the emphasis is more on collaboration and face-to-face interaction,” someone continues.

Even with a new generation entering the workforce and more organisations implementing it, we believe desk bombing can become a widely accepted culture.

A more formal approach may be preferred in many larger and more established organisations, with employees expected to follow certain protocols for communication and seeking assistance, such as scheduling a meeting or sending an e-mail.

This is an old organisational regime that needs to be replaced with open access to work.

Celebrations and rituals are an important part of everyday life in India, not only at home, but also at work. As a result, desk bombing fits in with Indian culture. Desk bombing is not limited to formal occasions; it can also be done casually, for example, to celebrate an employee’s birthday. It is viewed as a method of making employees feel valued and appreciated. It’s a fun way to bring everyone together to share in the joy of the occasion.

Will the culture be accepted by the next generation?

The younger generation is more open and social. Because it is all about effective communication, the new generation entering the workforce is very likely to adopt the ‘desk bombing’ culture.

Verbal communication forges bonds that cannot be replicated by writing alone. Speaking to someone demonstrates that he or she is valued. This can be a great motivator for people to go above and beyond at work.”

Furthermore, written communication is frequently misinterpreted or taken casually, whereas verbal communication ensures that everyone is on the same page. With the emergence of a new generation in the workforce, traditional practices such as desk bombing are sometimes being called into question.

This is due to the new generation’s emphasis on efficiency, minimalism, and sustainability. Desk bombing, with its emphasis on decorations and excess, may appear wasteful and unnecessary to them; however, it occurs infrequently but is somewhat accepted within the organisation. Such culture shows rigidity.

The younger generation is more open to networking and new ideas. They do, however, expect immediate results, which can be difficult for the organisation’s old bosses but beneficial to the organisation.

Somewhere, Desk bombing may also be distracting and disruptive to the younger generation. Noise and visual distractions can be a major issue in an open-plan office where everyone is working next to each other. Furthermore, with pandemic-induced shifts to remote work, desk bombing may become less common or less practical than in the past.

Some senior HR professionals believe that desk bombing is acceptable as long as it is perceived as intrusive by employees on the receiving end. Desk bombing may be perceived as not only intrusive, but also counterproductive by the next generation.

So, it is important to note that individual preferences may vary, and it is critical to respect each employee’s personal space and preferences in order to create a productive and healthy work environment.

Despite our reservations, we believe that desk bombing is well suited to Indian culture and will be accepted by the younger generation in the workforce.

Positive effects of desk bombing

For a variety of reasons, desk bombing may be relevant and appropriate in the workplace. It is a method of recognising and acknowledging individual accomplishments and contributions to the workplace. This can result in a more positive and inclusive work environment.

To have a positive impact in an organisation, it is necessary to foster a culture that views desk bombing as essential to its success. It should be regarded as part of the organisation’s functional culture and practiced consistently at all levels, rather than just by junior or mid-level employees. This requires maturity and understanding at all levels, as well as everyone’s participation.

It is up to the managers at the next level to ensure that a positive ‘desk bombing’ culture is implemented in the organisation. Employees will accept and embrace it if implemented religiously by reporting managers at all levels. It should be used as a regular practise in day-to-day operations, not just for appraisals, retention, or addressing high attrition rates.

It is critical for new-generation employees to understand and adhere to the prevailing workplace culture and expectations in their organisation. This may entail observing their colleagues’ and superiors’ communication styles and practices, as well as seeking guidance and feedback on their own approach.

Finally, the key is to strike a balance between being approachable and accessible while also respecting the workplace’s boundaries and expectations.

To be effective, desk bombing should be viewed as a complementary aspect of the organisation’s culture and practiced by everyone in the organisation. The decision to accept desk bombing as a workplace tradition should be made on a case-by-case basis.

What is clear is that companies must be sensitive to their employees’ needs and preferences, especially as a new generation enters the workforce.

CONCLUSION

Desk bombing is not just a culture; it is a necessity of the time to embrace in the workplace in order to complete tasks. Emails are useful for keeping records, but they have no immediate impact on the task at hand. Work efficiency must be correlated with an open culture of access to anyone at any time.

There are companies or organisations that already have a ‘Desk bombing’ culture in their work DNA. This is assisting them in succeeding and growing more quickly. Desk bombing is a common practice in Japanese businesses.

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