Tackling Employee Personal Calls: A Responsible Employer's Guide

Managing employee behavior, especially during work hours, can be a tricky task. If you've found yourself in the position of your cleaner or other employees engaging in personal conversations on their cell phones, it may be time to address the issue. This article explores various solutions and the importance of setting clear workplace expectations to enhance productivity and maintain a professional environment.

Option 1: Is the Solution to Fire the Employee?

While firing someone is a drastic measure, it's sometimes necessary if the behavior is persistently problematic. However, it's often more productive to have a conversation first. If the cleaner's constant personal calls are affecting their work output, it's important to address the issue before resorting to termination.

Option 2: Acceptance and Letting Go

Another approach is to accept that people need breaks and personal time during their shift, and to let them have it. As an employer, it's crucial to strike a balance between your needs and your employees' personal lives. This doesn't mean disregarding productivity, but rather understanding that a short break can sometimes increase overall efficiency.

Option 3: Communicating Company Policies

The best solution involves clear communication and setting guidelines. Start by discussing the policy with all employees in a group setting. Spell out what you expect, emphasizing that personal calls should be minimized during work hours. It's important to make it clear that any personal business must not interfere with job responsibilities.

Explain the reasoning behind the policy. For example, using personal time on company time is akin to stealing, as the employee is supposed to be focused on work. Encourage open dialogue and provide a clear path for addressing any issues that arise, perhaps by setting specific times when personal calls are allowed, or during breaks.

Consider Alternative Solutions

If the current employee is valuable, consider negotiation or hiring a new staff member. A new contract or agreement can include specific clauses about phone usage during work hours. Outline the expectations and the consequences of not adhering to them. This approach can help maintain a professional environment and provide a clear understanding of what is expected from all employees.

Self-Sufficiency vs. Taking a Stand

Some employers might consider doing the cleaning themselves or ignoring the issue if it doesn't significantly impact their work. However, this can lead to a lack of respect for the labor you're paying for and diminished productivity. It's important to recognize that a cleaner who talks on the phone during work can still be doing an excellent job, as long as the work quality remains unaffected.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the key is to communicate clearly, set boundaries, and enforce policies consistently. Encourage open dialogue and understanding between you and your staff. By doing so, you can create a more harmonious and efficient work environment where personal calls are minimized and productivity remains high.

For more tips and advice on managing employee behavior, consider exploring resources on workplace communication and productivity. Ensuring that all employees are aware of the company's expectations is crucial for maintaining a professional and productive workplace.