Switchtasking - Turn Off Your Monitor

Every day our society becomes more and more virtual, more digital. We have less in-person conversations and more meetings over the phone and through web conferencing. As transportation costs continue to raise, this shift toward long-distance communication is becoming inevitable.

Unfortunately, the likelihood of switchtasking during these meetings also increases.

One of the biggest culprits of switchtasking occurs when we are talking on the phone and working on our computer at the same time. How many times have you heard the distant click-clack of keys through the phone? How many times have you personally had to ask someone to repeat their question because you were typing an email during a phone call?

Even worse, many carry the bad habits they practice in long-distance communication into their face-to-face meetings! We experience this daily when people interrupt our conversation to see who just called or even check their email.

Building relationships of worth requires focusing completely on the individual, regardless of the method of communication.

Here are three suggestions to help you better focus on your conversations with others:

1. Turn off your monitor. If the conversation you are having does not require your computer then turn off the monitor or get away from the screen. Personally, I like to get up and pace while I have conversations on the phone. It helps me have more energy and stay focused on the person on the phone. By removing the computer distraction, you have less likelihood of trying to jump through websites, answer emails, or check your calendar while talking to someone.

2. Close your door. If you’re working in an office that allows you to have a closed work space make sure you close your door while engaged in a conversation. This creates a physical barrier for others who may step in to interrupt you. Then, after your conversation is finished, open up the door, allowing other people to know you’re available to talk to them. Even better: have a sign on your door that gives a clear expectation of what time you will next be available.

3. Stay on one line. Unfortunately, it has become culturally acceptable to interrupt your current conversation and switch over to another phone call. Many even interrupt a face-to-face conversation to answer their phone. Avoid making the switch and, if possible, send new callers directly to voicemail. The majority of these phone calls can be dealt with after you’re finished with the current conversation. If you are expecting a call to come in while you’re talking to someone, create that expectation in advance so they know your conversation may need to be cut short. Of course, if you are certain the incoming call is an emergency then you can politely let the person know that you need to answer it. However, this should be the exception, not the rule.