10 tips to improve your tech label
Companies today insist on certain technology standards for their workforce because companies are legally and ethically responsible for all the information that comes from their computers, fax machines, Blackberrys, cell phones, etc. But beyond legal compliance issues, to create true business credibility, your tech etiquette skills must match or exceed your personal etiquette skills when dealing with people.
People judge your character by the levels of civility and basic manners you demonstrate during any face-to-face interaction, as well as the technological interactions they have with you. For example, you may have impeccable etiquette skills when around people and may treat all people with dignity and respect when in your presence. However, if you don’t return phone calls or emails, or send someone a barrage of inappropriate jokes with uninvited attachments via email, your character will be in question and you risk being considered a shallow charmer.
* Your cell phones don’t ring at inappropriate times and places.
* Avoid loud, one-sided phone conversations in public.
* NEVER provide confidential information about company business through your cell phone, text messages, instant messages or emails.
* Mutes your audible ringtones, such as songs or sounds.
* Avoid checking, reading, and sending instant messages and emails on laptops or Blackberries during business meetings.
* Never send emails using the CC function instead of using the BCC function, thus exposing everyone on the list.
* Avoid overusing the “reply all” feature in emails instead of selecting a specific list for those who will receive the email.
* Be very careful not to use emotional language or threats in texts, IMs, or emails such as: “If I don’t get this report in the next hour, your job is on the line.”
* You avoid the excessive use of emoticons like:>} in instant messages or emails.
* Avoid overusing shorthand to those unfamiliar with your shorthand terms, such as LM for left post or NW for next week.
Behaviors demonstrate levels of trust in business. Sometimes it’s better to talk less and raise your levels of business decorum as a way to deepen relationships with customers and associates.