Six Rules for IM-ing at Work

[Jeff]

I ran across an article on CNN titled Six Rules for IM-ing at Work.

With instant messaging becoming ubiquitous in more businesses, what are the rules for IM etiquette in the business realm? The article outlined six basic rules, and I think most of them apply to any instant messaging -- not just at work.
[list=1][*]Check your company's policy on downloading software - Most companies officially forbid this, but don't have an effective way to prevent you from doing so. Be aware that if you do, you're probably breaking a rule and could be subject to disciplinary action.[*]Use caution. - Companies are getting smarter about IM, and many of them monitor IM conversations. Yes, this IS legal, since you're using their computers, their network, and their internet connection, etc. Just use some common sense and don't get too "casual" in your conversations.[*]Be aware of viruses and other security risks. Everyone should listen carefully to this one. Don't trust links and certainly not files sent from people you don't know, and I'd even question stuff from people I DO know. IM viruses have been known to replicate by auto-IM-ing entire contact lists, so just because you got a link from someone you know, that doesn't mean they actually meant to send it.[*]Use your status options. This is another one of those common sense rules. If you are busy, change your status to busy. If you are away, state it. Let people know your true status so they don't get frustrated when you don't reply.[*]Be respectful of others' time. If a colleague says they are "busy" with their status indicator, don't bug them! Busy means "don't bug me unless it's absolutely urgent and you know I'll be pissed if you don't contact me now."[*]Be responsible. Instant messaging can be a powerful business communication tool. Don't abuse instant messaging and turn it into a waste of your time and the company's resources. An occasional personal message might be fine, but treat it much like you would your company phone. </ol id="1">Good advice, even if it is common-sense.

[kelseyc]

Hey Jeff, that is a great article. Because I write for the Brosix IM blog, we talk a lot about these types of IM rules because they are just some of the many concerns our customers have had.

Enterprise Instant Messaging