Professionals in South Africa had different concerns -- 56 percent of respondents there claimed personal e-mail and internet usage was the biggest office distraction.

"Informal conversations can fuel productivity but a lot of the time professionals are engaging in conversations with colleagues out of politeness," said Andrea Ross, managing director of Robert Walters Singapore. "With most offices now being open concept, other people's conversations can be hard to avoid. Of course, the odd chat during the day can provide a welcome break and spark new ideas but there is a need to strike a balance."