Texting, iPods, appropriate use of Smartphones and social networking sites are all examples of trends in current technology that are spilling over into the workplace environment. As new professionals fresh out of school join the workforce, not only are they sharing in the abundance of technologies that already exist, but most are introducing devices and communication styles that are causing challenges for bosses, employers and their information technology departments.

Take texting, for example. Texting is, by far, the primary means of communication between those in the 22 and under age group, a.k.a. Generation Y. As a means of communication, texting is not a bad thing, however, when the language used in texting spills over to the workplace — and is used when sending and receiving e-mails — it has been known to agitate both employers and/or recipients who are unfamiliar with the extensive use of chat acronyms and texting shorthand and emoticons.

The truth of the matter is: it may be easier to type "AFAYC" (as far as you are concerned) and "INMP" (it's not my problem) but in today's business environment, when using e-mail, employers and clients are expecting complete, properly punctuated sentences and phrases.

A Word for Employers

As employers, CPAs need to understand that texting is the primary means of communication for this group and you must be patient with the transition to e-mail. As a Gen-Yer, you need to be aware that texting has its place in text messages, but appropriate business language should be utilized when communicating in e-mail applications to employers, clients and other business associates.

A Word for Gen Y

When it comes to iPods, most college students today own an iPod or similar device for playing digital music files.

Like texting, iPods also have their place outside of the workplace. Within the workplace the use of such devices can sometimes cause confusion of disruption. For example, imagine what a baby boomer would think of a new hire who, while working on an assignment listening to their iPod with nodes in both ears? That individual might be (wrongly) perceived as not being productive or not working, but simply e-mailing their friends. Others in the workplace might feel that as a Gen Y employee, you are shunning your co-workers, which can negatively affect your relationship with both your co-workers and your employer.

If a worker approaches you, take out the ear buds from both your ears. Even if your iPod is turned off, having an earphone in even one ear is still disrespectful! Singing, head bopping, banging and bringing your iPod to meetings is always deemed inappropriate in the work environment.

Lessons to Learn

Whatever the purpose, iPods will probably continue to populate offices everywhere, so Gen Y employees need to get cracking on their iPod etiquette.

As Smartphones and similar devices are being disseminated by employers to today's workforce, the recipients need to be aware of appropriate and inappropriate use of these devices.

The bottom line with respect to Smartphones is to know when to turn them on and off. While Smartphones have enabled professionals to instantly address the needs and concerns of their clients, they have also destroyed the continuity of conferences and meetings, interrupted important business deals and have been the root of ruined relationships.

The bottom line on Smartphones use is to use "common sense"! As a user, you need to balance between client and employer responsiveness, as well as quality of life. If you need to take a call or check e-mail, go someplace private. Checking e-mails or accepting personal calls during meetings with your employer or clients in a group environment are likely to leave your employer with a bad impression.

Lastly, when it comes to social networking sites, just be "smart." While these sites are great for sharing social events, personal experiences and facts with friends and visitors, they also open up a window to your personal life to clients, business associates and employers that might otherwise be best kept confidential.

If you choose to use social networking sites, just be professional. Post only those comments and pictures that you would not mind your employer or prospective employer to view and access. Remember, in today's competitive environment, employers are utilizing many methods to evaluate potential candidates. Social networking sites happen to be one of the best windows that employers have into the other side of the life of their employees and candidates.

Conclusion

The bottom line with all of these technologies is to just use common sense. Before taking action, put yourself in the shoes of your employer or clients and if you feel they would deem such use as inappropriate, stop and think.

James C. Bourke, CPA/CITP,  is a Partner at WithumSmith+Brown where he is Director of Firm Technology. He is a past president of the New Jersey Society of CPA's and currently serves on AICPA Council and the AICPA CITP Credential Committee.