According to Statcounter’s June 2018 web browser usage report, Google Chrome accounts for nearly 60 percent of worldwide market share. Yet despite this whopping account, only a few business users employ any of the productivity-boosting extensions offered in Chrome’s web store. Read on to find out if one of our favorite extensions could solve your […]
Chrome extensions for better productivity
Move over IE, Hello Microsoft Edge!
Not all Windows users are fans of Internet Explorer, and not all Mac users are crazy about Safari. But there’s good news for Windows users: Windows 10 replaces IE with a brand new browser, Microsoft Edge. Here is a list of the key features you shouldn’t miss out on: Import favorites You can easily import […]
These tips help enhance your Powerpoint skills
It’s normal for us to utilize whatever tools we can to make things a little easier. Wanting to use tech to make presentations easier to understand is no exception. Although Microsoft PowerPoint can help you through the daunting task of speaking in public, that isn’t always the case. If your slides distract the audience from […]
How does Microsoft FindTime really work?
Theoretically, scheduling meetings should be virtually hassle-free. But in reality, simply agreeing on a mutually compatible time is often an impossible task. On top of hectic schedules, you have different departments that have their own time constraints. What if there was a tool that could take care of all that for you? That’s where Microsoft […]
Boost your productivity using an iPad
Have you ever seen someone on an airplane using their iPad to knockout some work and wanted to know what their secret was? It’s actually not as complicated as you might think. With a few accessories and apps in place, you too can enjoy greater productivity when using your iPad. Now you’re probably wondering just […]
How To Stop Employees From Indulging In Excessive Personal Cell Phone Use At Work
Thanks to smart phone technology, it seems like everyone is “plugged in” to 24/7 web access, texting, and e-mail; not to mention phone conversations. In some cases, people have become so addicted to their phones that they’re texting constantly, even while driving, having dinner with their families or using the bathroom! Clearly these devices can become a major distraction at work, causing major problems with productivity, especially if you want your staff to be focused on getting critical projects completed accurately and on time. But mandating a “no cell phone” policy may be too harsh. So where’s the balance? Here are a few tips: Implement a personal cell phone usage policy in writing. Taking a personal call from the daycare about a sick child may be acceptable, but spending 3 hours plus organizing a wedding is not. This should include certain etiquette rules, such as turning the ringer off during meetings or speaking softly to avoid disrupting others. If possible, get your employees involved in creating the policy; explain why you are doing it and that you want to make it fair and reasonable. Usually there are only a small percentage of employees who truly abuse the system, so you’ll find most employees will be on board with the policy and happy to provide input. Post this policy throughout the office as a reminder. Review this policy with each employee and have them sign it. Provide some flexibility for those in unusual circumstances, such as an employee with a sick child or with a recent death in the family. Enforce the policy so everyone knows you are serious about it. One of the best ways for management to do this is by walking around. Since personal cell phones are not connected to the company’s network, you really won’t know if anyone is violating the policy unless you physically walk around to check on them from time to time. Lead by example! Don’t expect your employees to stay off their cell phones if you are constantly texting and talking on yours. Attention: Your cell phone policy can be included in your AUP (acceptable usage policy) that directs how employees may or may not use company resources (Internet, e-mail, etc.). For more help in creating these policies, contact our office!