If there is anything that we carry with us at all times, it’s our mobile phones. ‘Smart’ as they are, they keep us connected, updated and in touch with everybody and everything else.
The question that so many keep asking is whether it is acceptable to use your mobile phone in meetings. When you are with others, the phone should remain on silent. Whether it’s an internal meeting or business lunch the reply is the same. However, when we do find ourselves in the situation where it is impossible to turn it off, put it away and forget about it for a couple of hours, then it’s best to be clear and inform the others that you are expecting a call or that you would need to check on important emails. Needless to say, it’s best if it’s set on silent mode.
So what do you do when you need to take the call? If it’s going to be a long one, avoid disturbing other patrons by excusing yourself from the table and taking the call elsewhere. This can be particularly awkward when you are accompanied by only one person. Try and keep the call as brief as possible – the same time you would need to quickly visit the rest room.
Don’t post to social media while you are in a meeting – unless it is your job to do so. Using a phone in the audience while you are at a seminar or event is a no no. Your superiors are watching your channels too.
Although it may be called social media, remember that, ultimately, it is actually alienating you from the real world around you.
