What Are You Really Doing On Your Smartphone At Work?

By Kaylin Slakey

Smartphones and other mobile devices have become invaluable tools for many professionals. They allow us to stay connected to email, work on digital files and keep in contact with coworkers on and off the job. But, just as smartphones have revolutionized the way we work, they’ve also changed how we waste time at work.

This morning I stumbled across a recent survey conducted by Harris Interactive about mobile activities in the workplace. As I read, it brought me back to my high school days of hiding my RAZR under my desk as I texted during class, hoping I would not be one of the unlucky ones whose phone got confiscated by our cellphone-averse teacher.

According to the report, 74 percent of respondents indicated that they do things on their mobile devices that they would not do on their work computer. These activities included watching online videos, looking for another job, visiting an online dating website, researching embarrassing conditions and investigating plastic surgery options. Additionally, 63 percent of those surveyed admitted to “sneaking-a-peek” at their mobile device during work meetings using tactics such as hiding their phone, excusing themselves to the restroom, pretending to tie their shoe or creating a distraction.

I know I’m guilty of checking up on my social networks on my smartphone during work hours and I think you’d be hard-pressed to find someone who isn’t texting occasionally during work. Even congressional leaders are using their mobile devices on the house floor these days. Smartphones may encourage people to get a bit sidetracked on the job, but the fact that I can now monitor the Women’s World Cup match from my phone at work (as I did yesterday) is just too convenient to pass up.

What about you? What do you use your mobile device for at work?

A little bit about me: Interested in the business side of mobile as well as learning about cutting edge capabilities and new apps. I know the second part of that statement begs the question: “then why do you use a BlackBerry?”, but we will save that discussion for another day, another blog post.