Manage Distractions

Unfortunately, even the best of us can easily become distracted. In particular, the use of cell phones during meetings can really harm group productivity: checking e-mail or texts (or surfing the Web!) is totally inappropriate and often offensive to colleagues. Research shows that cell phone use impacts the way group members perceive individual communication competence (Tolman, 2012). Thus, it’s essential that your group comes up with a policy regarding proper etiquette and behavior during its meetings, particularly in regard to cell phone use.