Texting And Working?

by Jessica Sullins

Cell phones are a necessity in today’s world — and that includes the workplace. Employers are faced with determining when employees use their phones and in what capacity.

Furthermore, cell phones are not just used for calling and texting anymore. Now phones have the capability of accessing the internet, games and other applications. If an employee is on their phone, how do you know what they are doing?

The survey says:
According to an AAIM Employers’ Association e-survey of 138 St. Louis and central Illinois businesses, 76.1% of employers have a cell phone usage policy and 55.4% of employers allow cell phones to be visible on the employee’s desk.

What to consider:
• Create a policy. No matter how an employer decides to treat cell phone usage in the workplace, employees need to be clear on when and how they can use them. Creating a clear policy will help employees know their limits.

• Communication. Once a policy is created, it is important to communicate it to employees. Verbal and written communication are both important to ensure employees have a clear understanding of what is expected.

• Emergencies. Even with a strict cell phone policy, employees need a way to receive communication in case of an emergency. The employer needs to allow outside contact for employees either by cell phone or the company phone system for an emergency.

Jessica Sullins, PHR (solutions.team@aaimea.org) is on the Research and Solutions Team for AAIM Employers’ Association, which helps Missouri and Illinois companies manage their people and processes.