Blackberry Etiquette for Business
Blackberry etiquette in business is a much-debated topic. The etiquette of Blackberry use depends greatly upon the corporate culture in which you work, the context of use and the people surrounding you.
Other People Are Reading
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Appropriate Use
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There are times during which it is usually appropriate to utilize a Blackberry, even in a business meeting--to retrieve or contact a referenced individual, to look at a fact or to unobtrusively request a colleague's presence at the meeting.
Types
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Different circumstances may affect whether it is appropriate to use your Blackberry in front of others. It's probably best to ignore it when you are in a one-on-one meeting with your boss or when you are speaking with new clients in person for the first time. However, if you are in a meeting with others from your company and you are waiting on a bid to come in (or if your coworkers understand that you have a family member in the hospital), it's likely appropriate to check.
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Time Frame
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Take notes. In all circumstances, limit your time on the Blackberry and apologize if you've distracted others. Others may understand your need to check your messages but shouldn't be expected to carry on while you type out a page-long reply. Should you need to reply, excuse yourself from the meeting to return the message or phone call.
Discretion
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If you do have to use your Blackberry during a meeting, attempt to be discreet. Pulling the device onto the table and using it openly is a breach of etiquette. When you are done checking the Blackberry, tuck it away and express a genuine interest in the meeting--take some notes.
Find Balance
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In the digital age, people expect responses to be instant and complete. Find the balance of being accessible to clients and colleagues during the work day by assessing your own Blackberry etiquette.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Didiom Image by Fotolia.com, courtesy of Vasiliy Koval
