Combating Cell Phone “Abuse” rather than “Use” in the Workplace
Today, the vast majority of Americans own hand held devices, most of which are smart phones with unlimited internet access. These numbers have only increased within the professional world; however, the use of one’s personal device does not stop when the work day begins. With the increased use of personal devices at work, the question arises, how should an employer regulate cell phone use in the office?
Work place policies vary with the needs of each business. For instance, some businesses provide their employees with cell phones while others, like FedEx, have banned the usage of cell phones from the workplace completely. The biggest challenge posed by cell phones is their inappropriate use in the workplace, which can lead to a reduction in productivity.
There are several ways in which employers can manage personal cell phone use in the work place. Employers should make their policies relating to cell phone use about performance. If employees are able to meet their productivity goals, while having access to their cell phones and social media accounts, then there is no need for further action. However, if employees are unable to meet their productivity goals and are using their cell phones when they are not permitted to do so, the employer should have a course of action. Employers should also set reasonable boundaries for the use of cell phones and enforce personal device etiquette. As such, those who need to make a private phone call should have the ability to step out of the office to do so and those who want to listen to music should be allowed to use headphones, as long as productivity goals are met. In the end, creating a formal and detailed personal device policy for the workplace should set forth etiquette rules and guidelines for usage, access, security, and privacy.
Clear guidelines can manage employee expectations and increase productivity within the workplace. The attorneys at Tristan & Cervantes can assist you in creating employee handbooks and implementing policies pertaining to these work-related issues. Please contact us if you have any questions.
