Many expect that if they “see” you are online, that you have time to chat. During business hours to want to chat about the latest project, customer issue or concern can make sense if the parties involved are not in the same location. That said, IMing for business should be used sparingly, with discretion and respect for the party on the other side.
Before jumping to IM a contact, you first need to think about if the topic is apropos for business hours. Then consider whether an e-mail or a phone call would be more productive and efficient before considering IM as your mode of communication.
With business IMing, not being available can cause the other side to unnecessarily feel you do not consider their contact important. In my experience, whenever you do not do what other onliners expect or you let them know those expectations are not entirely accurate, (no matter how kindly) relationships can suffer. You may be busy, in a meeting, on the road — there are many reasons for IM unavailability — so IMers should never make assumptions when it comes to others availability.
That said, you have the right to let others know when you are not available. If you do not want to add contacts to your ignore list or “hide” when you are online by having your settings not announce your status, simply explain you are busy doing research or a business task and ask when would be a good time to hook up later. Then follow through.
In the same vein, don’t expect just because you see someone is online that they are available to you alone and for idle chit-chat. Especially during business hours, you need to respect and be cognizant of the fact that during this time frame we all have responsibilities and commitments. When IMing someone during business hours, always ask first if they are available and have time to chat. If they don’t; do not take it personally.
When it comes to IMing, both sides need to be considerate to and honest with the other side about their availability and expectations — especially during business hours.
Some More Info for You:
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