Turn Off Your Technology for Better Conversations

Have you ever been talking with someone who is looking at their technology more than they are making eye contact with you?

Surfing on their laptop? Or answering email? Tapping away on their phone?

It does’t make you feel good. Nor does it make for a good conversation.

For more effective communication, you need to turn off the distractions while you are talking.

Less Technology, More Attention

When you are meeting with someone, you need to give them your full attention. Not only is it a sign of respect, but it results in more effective conversations.

Discussions are more personal. Better decisions are made. Meetings are shorter.

Yet, in our ever busy technology driven world, most people are distracted by their gadgets during even the simplest of chats.

Their phone is buzzing. Email is popping up. Notifications are dinging.

If you have ever been on the other side of a conversation where someone is paying more attention to their technology than to you, well, it isn’t fun.

Yet, there is a simple tactic to deal with these distractions and improve your conversations:

“When talking to someone… turn off your technology.”

Tweet This

It doesn’t matter if it is your laptop, iPad, Phone, or even Apple Watch.

Close them. Put them down. Turn them off.

Whatever it takes to remove the distraction, and to show some respect to the individual with whom you are speaking.

This tip applies to many circumstances:

• In Person – People don’t enjoy talking to you when your eyes are on your phone or computer screen. Turn off the tech, make eye contact, and give the person in front of you the priority they deserve.
• In Meetings – No one wants you working in their meeting. Shut your laptop, silence your phone, and participate. You may get more out of the meeting and get out of the meeting sooner, as well.
• On the Phone – Even while on the phone it is important to turn off your technology. You can quickly tell if the person on the other end of the line is distracted doing something else. Give your full attention.
• At Work and Home – Most of us realize the importance of giving our full attention at work. But, don’t underestimate the importance at home, as well. Your spouse or significant other doesn’t want you staring at your phone screen when you are talking to them.

And it applies to many devices:

• Computer/Laptop – Close that laptop lid. Turn off your computer screen. This simple gesture makes a big difference.
• Phone – A great tip for your phone is to put it on silent and put if face down on a table or surface. This makes it apparent that you are not messing with it in any capacity.
• Watch? – Apple Watch arrives tomorrow. I wonder if we are about to shift back to an etiquette issue of looking at our watches vs. our phones. Let’s hope not.

Turn Off the Tech

Turning off your technology is a simple gesture that goes a long way in preventing distractions.

Show respect for the individual you are talking to, rather than fiddling with your gadgets.

Turn off your technology and have better conversations today.

Question: Do you let your technology interfere with your daily conversations? You can leave a comment by clicking here.