There is no need for me to go through the long line of technological advances that have been made in the 21st century. The invention of these life style changes directly affects the way we do business.
“Change is the only constant thing”- a new age mantra that we cannot overlook.
Here is the question though, are these technological advances making us lazy or unprofessional ?
Now I was born in this very century but I do remember a time where sending your boss a text to inform that you were running late was looked down upon.
All companies want to embrace the flat line organizational structure or the open door policy to increase productivity or to create better work place culture, but where is the line? How far can we go? When do our actions seem unprofessional? Or have we evolved into a new phase where use of practical methods are more important that old useless formalities?
I have listed a few scenarios where as human resource experts we suggest you be very careful.
- First impressions are the last- YES! This still makes sense. As individuals that conduct at least 10 interviews on a day-to-day basis it troubles us to see candidates not taking this very seriously.
It’s very “cool” to have a video C.V or even a power point presentation of who you are, but then how far do you go? When taking a risk of making your C.V cool and hip make sure that the industry asks for it. Also if you are going to send something in unusual formats please make sure the person receiving it is able to access it.
- Use of Facebook- time and now again we have seen Facebook work wonders for businesses, and then again we have seen people make silly decisions on it. Facebook and twitter are used for businesses marketing more than ever right now, all head hunters will look you up on these forums at least once during the interview session. Is it a good idea to have a rant about your boss or the people you work with? Maybe not. Don’t let these important marketing tools become an obstacle in your career.
- Using text language- How many of us are guilty of using “K” “C ya” while sending a professional email? If you feel like your professional vocabulary has taken a back seat, it’s time to slow down. Get some help from the internet there are several amazing website that can help you. Our recommendation http://www.businessmanagementdaily.com/.
- Using Watsapp or text messages to communicate- There are a lot of arguments around this little communication wonder, it seems like the legal sector is already embracing SMS as a legit communication medium. Yes it is an excellent, discrete and immediate medium for situations where there is a need to get an urgent message to another associate who maybe in a “do not disturb” situation or during an important client meeting. But perhaps not always a good way to communicate sensitive issues, as we all know that text messages can may skew the point being made and lead to misunderstandings. There are also been talk about sending in messages when employees are sick, our advice put down rules about this and follow through!
- Bulk Emails/text messages- if you are a person that is in charge of promoting a product/event etc you may use this technique the most. Bulk text and emails do save a lot of time however you risk the chance of getting blocked or un-followed due to excessive forwards/invites being sent to people who may not be interested. Keep a close check on your contact list to avoid becoming a permanent blocked contact.
Few people would argue that the above techniques of communication are absolutely acceptable; we seem to see it as an industry specific pro or con. Either way, the best way to avoid any issues that transcend from use of new technological changes in communication methods is to draw out specific rules around it.
Don’t b afraid to use or revise that employee handbook, it can be used as a great tool when you want instruct your employees on what is an acceptable medium of communication in different situations.
Address the situation by using examples of how communicating in an unprofessional manner can affect the business or office culture in your next meeting.
Remember nothing is too petty if it’s affecting your business in a negative manner.
Lizlyn Careers 