Can Time Management Training Influence Perceived Control of Time, Perceived Stress, and Job Performance?

By Brad Bell

Work may be stressful when we feel that we do not have enough time to complete the work.  We may wish to find a way to better manage our time.  This could include a number of things, such as prioritizing tasks and developing plans to achieve goals.

Hafner and Stock (2010) conducted an experiment that addressed the effects of time management training.  Participants were randomly assigned to either a training group or a control group (the control group was training at a later time).   Their findings suggest that the time management training increased perceived control of time and reduced perceived stress. However, their findings suggest that the time management training did not affect overall job performance ratings (supervisor ratings). (1)

Although time management training may not affect job performance, it still may be beneficial.  It could lead to greater happiness because of less perceived stress.  It may lead to lower perceived stress because the person feels that he or she has more control of time.

Notes

1.  See their article for information on other findings.

References

Hafner, A., & Stock, A. (2010).  Time management training and perceived control of time at work.  The Journal of Psychology144, 429-447.