Gadgets are great, except when people use them in a rude way that disrupts business, productivity and workplace relations. Here are the five main types of offenders and what to do about them.
The identities and remedies come courtesy of Robert Half Technology:
1. The Misguided Multitasker. This person thinks that e-mailing or texting during a meeting or conversation demonstrates efficiency. But all it really demonstrates is rudeness. Suggestion: Ask this person to use the handheld device only in an urgent situation and to step out of the room to reply in such situations.
2. The E-mail Addict. If you’ve ever played e-mail tag with a colleague, you’ve likely encountered this person, who relies on a constant stream of e-mails, instant messages or texts to communicate every needs. Why? This individual thinks it will save time. But excessive messaging, particularly regarding trivial things, can be inefficient and disruptive. Suggestion: Ask the e-mail addict’s manager to offer a reminder that often a phone call or in-person discussion can resolve issues more quickly.
3. The Broadcaster. In a meeting, a restaurant or a restroom, this person has no shame when it comes to using a cell phone anytime, anywhere — to discuss anything. When using a cell phone in common areas, it’s not only disrespectful but also potentially off-putting to others. Suggestion: Advise all employees to keep private conversations limited to private places.
4. The Cyborg. Rare is the chance to see this person without the blinking glow of a Bluetooth headset or iPod earbud nestled in an ear. Keeping a wireless earpiece or headphones constantly plugged in signals to others who may need to speak to you that your attention is not available. Suggestion: Teach workers that they should show that they are accessible to their colleagues by using earpieces in the office with discretion and consideration.
5. The Distractor. This person may have good intentions in setting a cellphone to vibrate rather than torturing colleagues with a cheesy ringtone, but hearing it repeatedly buzz loudly on a desktop or during a meeting can be just as distracting. A better solution: Ask workers to set their phone to silent or keep it in their pocket when in the office.
