IMPACT OF PERSONAL SOCIAL MEDIA USAGE ON INDIVIDUAL PRODUCTIVITY DURING WORKING HOURS

In the digital era, the widespread use of social media has significantly influenced workplace behavior and employee productivity. While social media platforms offer opportunities for communication, networking, and information sharing, excessive personal usage during working hours has raised concerns regarding its impact on individual performance. The primary objective of this study is to examine the relationship between personal social media usage and individual productivity during working hours. The research adopts a quantitative approach, utilizing a structured questionnaire administered to 150 respondents employed across various service sector organizations. Descriptive statistics and correlation analysis were applied to assess usage patterns and their effects on productivity levels. The findings indicate that moderate use of social media may provide short mental breaks and reduce stress; however, excessive and uncontrolled usage leads to distractions, reduced concentration, and decreased task efficiency. A significant negative relationship was observed between high-frequency social media use and individual productivity during work hours. The study concludes that while social media can have some positive psychological effects, its misuse during working hours can adversely affect employee performance. Organizations should implement clear policies and promote responsible usage to maintain a balance between employee well-being and productivity.