It is said time after time: I don’t want to let my employees use instant messaging because of the bad apples that will abuse the privilege. There is no way to deny the fact that some employees will take advantage of instant messaging. But does this mean that you should totally outlaw it? Believe it or not, not using instant messaging is putting your company behind the competition. This is the wave of the future in terms of corporate communication, and you shouldn’t let a couple of problem employees hold you back from doing what is best for the company.
The easiest way to deal with this problem is to organize a plan for instant message use. In other words, make it plain and simple to employees as to how they should be using this program. Tell them what they can and cannot do, as well as what you expect. This may not stop all employees from acting out, but it will definitely help.
Of course, you should continue to monitor the performance of all employees. Remember, an instant messaging application is supposed to increase efficiency and productivity. If you find that this is the not the case, you may need to sit down with certain employees to see what the problem is.
Don’t let a few problem employees hold your company back. Your company can benefit by allowing employees to communicate via instant messages with coworkers and clients.