Cell Phone Etiquette v2.0: Times have changed

December 14, 2009

It used to be the case that a cell phone in the workplace was a one-way ticket to write-ups and goodbyes. However, as our mobile lives become a bigger and bigger part of our businesses with traveling, clients on the go, email on our cell phones, twitter, and so on, we can’t deny the convenience. So what should the rules be on texting, phone calls, twitter, and the rest of ’em? Here are a few guidelines:

Cell Phone Calls

While personal calls, as always, should be kept to a minimum, cell phone usage by employees isn’t such a bad idea. Many clients prefer to reach their contact directly and a cell phone is a great way to do so. It’s a great personal connection, and a great way to show your clients that your service extends beyond the office. Traveling employees should especially embrace this practice, because nothing is more frustrating that habitually being put into voicemails or leaving messages. So, chat it up, just keep it work related.

Texting

Texting is a love/hate relationship. Some companies will fire employees for texting at work. Others encourage it. It’s like email, but faster and more direct. If you have just an “It’s a go!” or “lunch tomorrow” it can be much more effective than email. Personal texts are another story. Some companies hate it, but if it is used as an alternative to long personal calls, why not let a few texts slide? Happy employees are good employees.

twitter

Oh, twitter. How you’ve changed our lives. Now we think 140 characters at a time. Twitter CAN be a great tool to show personality within a company or to bring light to the day to day duties in an office. it can also be a terrific waste of time. Taking a few moments to guide all employees on what’s off limits and how to represent the company well can make a huge difference in how your company harnesses the power of the “blogosphere.”

General Internet Usage

Facebook. MySpace. LinkedIn. Surfing. Like most internet things, they can be a big productivity slayer, or if utilized properly, they can be a source of business and relationships. While sitting on facebook all day is never a good idea, allowing (or even encouraging) employees to spend a few minutes checking messages and clicking around can allow them to connect to old friends and network in ways that may produce new clients and revenue for your company. Blocking these sites entirely isn’t the greatest of ideas. Even offering a slight discount to people who connect with your employees though the net could prove effective.

So there are no great rules of thumb for internet and cell phone usage, but if used in moderation, they can be wonderful tools of innovation, business development, and customer service. Give ‘em a try and don’t be afraid to experiment with options. Most of these services are free or already paid for by employees, so the extra freedom won’t cost you too much. Give it a try!

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