Do not mess around with Tuesdays, for they are the most productive work day in the week, according to 57% of senior executives recently surveyed by Accountemps (Chicago Tribune, March 3, 2008). Monday was a distant second with only 12%, while Wednesday and Thursday tied at 11%. Friday finishes last with 9%.
For managers, this information can be used to increase your team's productivity by simply protecting Tuesday's productivity by keeping efficiency breakers away from that day. Do not schedule non-essential meetings, prevent vendors from stealing that day, counsel employees to avoid that day for doctor appointments or other personal issues.
Make Tuesday a Productivity Event!
Look at your work week as strategically as you would for any other project, program, or workflow. Know that Mondays are catchup days (from the weekend) and for staff meetings. Know that Fridays are already lost to weekend anticipation. Realize human nature has placed these constraints, and you can use it to your advantage.