Six Rules for Using a Cell Phone at Work
Monday February 25, 2008
I try to make phone calls while I'm doing housework. For example, I call my mom while I'm cleaning up from dinner and I phone my friend while I'm sorting the laundry. Sometimes I get so involved in the conversation that I stop focusing on the task at hand. It makes me wonder how people manage to concentrate on what they're doing while talking on cell phones. You see people talking everywhere you go — in stores, in restaurants, on trains, and even on the job. I mean, how can you concentrate on your work while chatting on the phone? How can your co-workers concentrate on their jobs while overhearing your conversation? Oh yeah, I forgot. They're on the phone too! Seriously though, do cell phones really belong in the workplace? If you can't do without yours, here are six rules for using a cell phone at work.
Comments
The author forgot the most important rule of all. Check with your human resources department to find out your company’s policy is about having cell phones at work, and follow it. The six points she makes assume it’s acceptable to have a cell phone at work, which is not the always the case.
As an employer, I resent the remark “you don’t want your boss to know how many calls you get”. Cell phones are not appropriate during working hours. You are being paid for your time – 100% of your time and attention. If you really think your personal life is more important than having a work ethic, I hope you win the lottery. Your employer shouldn’t have to put up with you.