The ubiquitous cell phone: in the workplace, it can be vital, helpful, a nuisance, or a nightmare. Cell phones can cause serious issues in the workplace if individuals don’t use their discretion. In this age, everyone wants to be connected, constantly. People can’t seem to tear themselves away from their phones, but job candidates know that it’s important to give a potential employer their undivided attention. As a candidate, you want to put your best foot forward to keep things professional. What crosses the line? And what’s appropriate when it comes to cell phone usage in the office?
Depends on Your Industry.
In some industries, it’ll be clear what’s appropriate and what’s not. In the most hands-on work like construction or manufacturing, you won’t have the time to scroll through Twitter. There are also some jobs in the clerical and light industrial fields that won’t allow for cell phone usage. If a company’s receptionist is using his or her cell phone, that worker is not going to be able to do their job effectively. As a job candidate, if you’re not sure what’s appropriate, ask.
Think About Relevance
Conversely, many industries will require or encourage you to use your cell phone. Any work in public relations, social media, or marketing may mean some serious multitasking utilizing your mobile device. If you’re reaching for your phone, second-guess yourself. Why do you need it? Are you scanning the web for a quick answer to a work question, or are you just checking your Facebook feed? Ask yourself an important question: can it wait?
Silence All Sounds
One of the most important considerations when it comes to cell phones in the workplace is the noise level. No matter what the cell phone policy is, your phone needs to be silent. Pings and rings are incredibly distracting in any environment, so set your device to silent or a subtle vibrate. Don’t be that person to ruin a meeting and halt all productivity because you forgot to turn off your ringer.
Keep it Short
If you need to use your phone in a workplace where it’s not welcomed, it’s imperative to keep things brief. If you’re shooting off an email or a text, make it quick. Need to make a call? Find a private place to do so. Your absence will be noticed, so returning quickly will help you keep things professional. This is best for you and your peers because you can keep disruptions on both ends to a minimum. Your conversations are personal, so keep them that way by stepping out and going into an empty room or quiet hallway to take care of your business. Don’t let your personal affairs be a distraction to the work that matters.
Awareness is Key
Above all else, just be smart about cell phone usage. Use your intuition and take cues from how other professionals behave. If you notice nobody else is texting during the meeting, don’t be the outlier. Important calls should be private, quiet, and quick. Emails and texts may be acceptable as long and they are not distracting you from important tasks. During the hiring or onboarding process, ask if there are any company policies on device usage, and what is typical behavior within the organization. And when in doubt, just ask.
Work With a Top Staffing Agency in Chicago
When it comes to keeping things professional and finding the right fit, you’ll need an expert opinion. For insight on how to stand out as a job candidate, contact Davis Staffing. As a top temporary staffing agency in Chicago, we have decades of staffing experience to help you land in the right role. Ready to move on to a new career? Visit our website today!
