Why Personal Phone Calls May Be Disruptive in the Workplace
Alice Tutunjian
These days we constantly see people using their phones at work, in grocery stores, in their cars- practically everywhere. After all we are human and interacting with others is a natural part of our day.
At some companies, employees freely make and receive phone calls as it is an accepted part of the culture, but other companies may frown upon it, especially if it happens too frequently.
Follow these steps to make sure you are not jeopardizing your job by using the office phone or your personal phone too much.
Make sure you know your company’s policy on personal phone calls. If you are not sure, ask your manager or HR personnel
If you need to make personal calls, do it on your own time (breaks, lunch, before and after work)
Make the calls someplace where others cannot hear you (by the way, the bathroom is not a good choice)
Even if you think it’s okay to make personal calls, your co-workers are not necessarily keen on hearing about your personal life nor do they enjoy the noise (it’s hard to concentrate when there’s constant talking going on in the background).
Talking on the phone cuts into your productivity; also, managers don’t like distracters
Receptionists get irritated when they are answering your personal calls coming through company lines; moreover, they might let your manager know that you are receiving too many personal phone calls
If your family needs to reach you, give them instructions on how and when they can do so without interrupting your workday
Links to More Good Reads on Making Personal Phone Calls in the Workplace
How to Handle Personal Calls at Work
Career Coach Hallie Crawford reminds us, “We can fall into the trap of using our phones too frequently in the workplace. The problem is not just the possibility of violating company policy regarding the use of phones or texting during meetings, but also the lack of professionalism you may portray by inappropriately using your phone.”… read more
Rules for Using Cell Phones at Work
Career Planning Expert Dawn Rosenberg McKay states, “Even if your boss allows you to use a cell phone at work, you should use good judgment about how you do it. Be mindful of your coworkers and your boss, not to mention your own ability to get your job done..” Explore some of her great tips on phone etiquette in the workplace … read more
Workplace Cell Phone Etiquette- 7 Smart Tips
Business Etiquette Consultant Rachel Wagner shares, “Unfortunately, many companies still do not have policies on smartphone use in the workplace, which leaves it up to employees to feel their way across uncertain terrain.” If your workplace does not have a cell phone policy and you are not sure what to do – or what not to do – try some of her suggestions … read more