Smart work-Hard work; An Enquiry into which Strategy Academic Staff of Federal University Otuoke Adopts to Improve Work Efficiency.

The study investigates the preferences of academic staff at the Federal University Otuoke towards hard work and smart work strategies to enhance their work efficiency. Using the Job Demand Resource Model as a framework, a mixed-method approach was adopted, involving quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with a sample of 171 academic staff members. The findings reveal that a significant portion of staff members value a balanced approach between hard work and smart work, highlighting the importance of efficiency, work-life balance, and adaptability for improved job performance. Particularly, 45.5% of respondents emphasized work-life balance as the leading factor influencing their performance, while adaptability and motivation followed. Interviews provided deeper insights, illustrating how staff members are increasingly recognizing that a combination of both work methods can lead to better educational outcomes and personal well-being. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the need for university management to cultivate a supportive work environment that encourages both strategies. Recommendations include promoting a work culture that rewards innovative teaching practices, investing in training for digital tools, and implementing flexible scheduling options to enhance staff satisfaction and productivity.