gen_ipod

iPod @ Work

Wearing of iPods/MP3s can cause problems at work such as users not being able to hear others when they address them, not being able to hear the phone to answer it, and having increased problems with inaccuracies and mistakes on the job due to being more mentally engaged in the music, says one human resource specialist.

By Matt Krumrie, Star Tribune Sales and Marketing

Last update: October 30, 2006 - 7:29 AM

In today's workplace, it's almost impossible not to find some people listening to their iPod or MP3 player while they work. In many cases, it's a harmless way to go about getting work done. In other cases, it can be a distraction for co-workers and other employees.

Some problems that occur related to the wearing of iPods/MP3s include the users not being able to hear others when they address them, not being able to hear the phone to answer it, and having increased problems with inaccuracies and mistakes on the job due to being more mentally engaged in the music, says Mary Emmen, president of Columbia Heights-based NewHR, LLC (www.newhronline.com), a company that specializes in creating human resource solutions for small businesses.

Other problems could also occur, says Emmen. Touching a co-worker on the shoulder to get the person's attention could scare the employee (possibly resulting in spilled coffee all over the keyboard) or be misconstrued as sexual harassment. And even though Emmen says it's a stretch, it wouldn't surprise her to see someone someday attempt to make a worker's comp case out of hearing loss from iPod wear during company time.

To prevent such problems Emmen recommends keeping the volume low enough that if someone stands behind them or next to them and speaks in a normal voice, the wearer will be able to hear and respond.

"If someone has to tap the wearer on the shoulder or engage in any other behaviors to get their attention, then their volume is too loud," says Emmen. "It should be well communicated that iPod use should not deter employees from interrupting and communicating with each other as necessary to conduct normal business."

There are benefits, Emmen says. The music can help keep things like eavesdropping on phone calls or office chitchat from distracting you. It can end the office battle over what station the radio is turned to, and most of all, it can help motivate people and get them into their groove.

"It can be potentially good for morale," says Emmen, "but the responsibility lies with the wearer to make sure that it's business as usual."

This is a weekly column devoted to career betterment. Matt Krumrie is a freelance writer from Inver Grove Heights, and has eight years of experience reporting on the employment industry. The first Sunday of each month this column will answer readers' questions. E-mail questions or subject ideas to askmatt@startribune.com.