... But what is the problem with the lack of productivity in Portugal? José Caetano da Silva, Managing Partner of Talent Search, has an unusual opinion on this issue: “The consequences of staying late at the organisation are apparent productivity. The day is managed in order to leave a few hours late in the evening.” And he criticises this situation: “The lack of productivity in this country is a generalised problem of attitude. I have worked in workaholic companies and, clearly, these organisations are like that because people's days are very badly structured”.

.... For José Caetano da Silva, organisations have to change in order to increase productivity: “They should establish a cultural pattern of time management in which there is a relationship between people and the process and task. Downstream management, in other words, ensuring that customers and processes are dealt with and this is professional fulfilment. Instead of upstream management which is buttering up the boss and showing up at the office. This is the culture existing in Portugal”.

... However, José Caetano da Silva appeals to Portuguese leaders: “The example should come from above. Establish specific mechanisms not for time spent, but for tasks achieved and results obtained.” And he adds: “It is ridiculous for people to just show up at work. Nowadays, it doesn't matter if a person leaves at 4 in the afternoon provided the work has been done.”