B2 – Upper Intermediate
Workplace surveillance is becoming more common as companies use digital tools to monitor employee activity and productivity. While these systems are intended to improve efficiency and accountability, they also raise concerns about their impact on employees’ well-being and performance.
Although monitoring can provide useful data, excessive surveillance may lead to stress, reduced job satisfaction, and lower motivation. Instead of boosting performance, it can sometimes cause employees to focus on appearing productive rather than doing meaningful work.
Read the article about how workplace surveillance impacts job performance.
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “oversight” mean in this sentence? “Employees facing the constant scrutiny of workplace surveillance are fed up with all the oversight.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
- What does “talent loss” mean? “Excessive monitoring can lead to feelings of micromanagement, decreased morale and lower job satisfaction, ultimately resulting in reduced productivity and potential talent loss.” Construct a sentence featuring this phrase. Give a synonym.
- What does “intrusive tactic” mean in this sentence? “Royal suggested instead of intrusive tactics like excessive productivity reporting, employers should focus on fostering ongoing, open conversations about expectations and performance goals.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
Discussion Questions:
- Have you ever experienced being monitored at work? How did it feel?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of workplace monitoring?
- Do you think younger workers and older workers feel differently about surveillance?
- What alternative methods can managers use to evaluate performance?
- How can companies balance productivity tracking with employee privacy and trust?