Does Your Workplace Have a Cell Phone Policy?
Policies and procedures may elicit groans from workers, but they are essential for keeping a workplace harmonious, productive and safe. This is especially important in offices and facilities where the workforce is diverse in age, ethnicity and gender.
One policy that can make or break morale centers on the cell phone. Cell phones, especially smartphones, can be distracting. If employees spend too much time texting and playing games, then you may want to consider implementing a policy to limit their use on the job. To develop a cell phone policy, you don’t have to start from scratch. However, you may want to utilize these techniques to make sure your policy is accepted, effective and long lasting.
4 Tips for Implementing a Cell Phone Policy
Give powerful supportive evidence
An accident occurring on the plant floor because a worker was distracted by his or her phone is a compelling reason to start a cell phone policy. In order to get your employees on board with a cell phone policy, give them an irrefutable reason as to why this is needed. It can’t be a vague reason or a based on a generalized statistic. You’ll have more success if you give them a specific example as to why cell phones are distractions.
Understand your objectives and potential obstacles
What is the goal of the cell phone policy? What does it solve? You must understand how to deal with the potential outcomes of this policy. You want metrics to show the policy’s effectiveness. For instance, let’s say you’re working on a new cell phone policy that prohibits cell phones on the plant floor. Keep in mind this may result in people leaving the floor more, taking more bathroom breaks or longer lunches.
Develop steps for deployment
Sometimes a new policy can be fully enacted right away. Other times, it might be best to deploy a new cell phone policy in stages. This can be especially helpful in minimizing any negative impact on morale. It can also allow you to experiment with policies that limit cell phones, but do not eliminate them. Taking the time to develop a deployment plan will help you prepare for unexpected roadblocks that may pop up along the way.
Listen to feedback
Be sure to keep your policy clearly displayed and explained. Set a probationary period where people who violate the policy are not punished, but instead reminded. This will help you get all of your employees on board, both temporary and permanent. After your employees have adjusted properly to the changes, you can begin to expect more from them.
Think up a fun way to implement new policies with a contest or event. When you need to add to your team, contact Burnett and Choice Specialists. We have the expertise to match great employees to our company culture.
