The "Killing of the Smartphones"....
In a meeting at our school today, I happened to glance around the room and noted a good third of the participants were busily tapping on their smartphones. I honestly believe if all of them had been confiscated that our meeting would have been much more informative and productive. Any good, common sense tips on controlling smartphone usage in business meeting-type settings?
I toally agree, Just recently, I communicated that Managers are not permitted to have phones in our meeting. I never bring my phone to a meeting, why do you need your phone in a meeting? If there is an emergency, we have a paging system. Anyone can do without there phone for a 60 minute meeting. In addition, it ensures that everyone is focused on the agenda for the meeting, paying attention and respecful of each employees participation. It ensures you cover everything you need and finsh the meeting on time. It has made our meetings more pleasant and productive for all.
Interesting post, Matt. There are many who would agree with you. Technology like PowerPoint, is not the teacher. It is a tool in the same way as chalk, dry erase markers, etc.
Jeffrey Schillinger
Smart phones and power point causes a lot of problems in my opinion. One is a distraction and the other tends to over-simplify things. Technology doesn't help us with meetings, etc. Our contry was founded by men that were FAR more articulate and thoughful than most of us are today. They didn't need all that to solve problems, debate ideas, etc. If the power is out for a few hours, we act as if NOTHING can be done! It's time to get over our technology crutches and learn some professionalism.
Amy,
Many people share your perspecive on this. Be sure to expect withdrawal symptomes when the phones (and laptops) are intially banned.
Jeffrey Schillinger
Honestly, I think that is a great idea! We don't allow our students to have them in our classrooms, why should we allow our staff to have them in meetings? I think cell phones are killing interpersonal communication anyway.
Rochelle,
Many institutions have banned phones, and in some cases laptops, from, meetings.
Jeffrey Schillinger
When I hold a meeting, I don't allow any phones. My company gives everyone pocket calendars in which they can write all their tasks in. I'll admit, I'm guilty of getting distracted with the phone also but this technique has helped out a lot.
