Can I Use My Phone at Work? It Depends.

Is it okay to use a phone at work? The answer to this question varies, so after reading this, you might want to ask your supervisor to see what is expected at your job.

When is it okay to use a phone or other electronic device at work?

When you are at work, you are expected to do your job, not to talk on the phone. Personal phone calls can be made before work, during a break, or after work. Texting works the same way; it is okay to text before work, during a break, or after work.

There are some times when it might be okay to talk on the phone, such as:

  • You are waiting for your doctor to call.
  • You have a child and your child’s school calls you.

Most other issues can be taken care of before work, on breaks, or after work. If you need to make a call or you are expecting an important call, talk to your supervisor ahead of time and ask if it is okay. Of course, this would happen once in a while. It would not make a good impression if you needed to make a phone call every day or even every week.

The same rules apply for other features on your electronic device: listening to music, playing video games, watching videos, checking personal email, and checking social media accounts. Unless your job requires you to use these features, save it for your break.

Rules usually don’t apply to every situation.

For every rule, there is an exception. Some jobs may allow you to listen to music while you are working. Even more important, you might need your phone to help you do your job.

  • It could be your job to answer the phone to talk with customers or co-workers.
  • You might have some reminders on your phone to help you remember what to do and when to do it.
  • You might need to use the calculator on your phone.

Mature behavior makes a good impression.

If you need to use your phone to do your job, be sure that your employer understands why you are using it. Be trustworthy and use your phone just for work. In this way, you will make a good impression as a quality employee.

Is it your goal is to keep your job, make more money, or get ahead at work by being promoted to another job? If your answer is yes, you would be wise to follow these guidelines when using your phone or other electronic device at work. Quality employees are more likely to get raises, promotions, and more hours.

(c) 2013 Smart Steps(R) LLC