MOBILE
Whether employees bring their own device or the business hands one to them, these devices contribute to productivity. “Ultimately, mobile comms facilitate smooth and seamless collaboration and communication between remote workers, office-based employees, clients and customers. “This flexibility enhances productivity and ensures that work can continue uninterrupted, even when employees are not physically present in the office.” “While field agents certainly benefit from mobile technologies for tasks like accessing customer data, managing schedules, and communicating with headquarters, the need for mobile communication extends to all employees in hybrid work environments. Whether employees are working from home, on the go, or in the office, mobile devices serve as essential tools for staying connected and productive.” Balancing Act While the finance department may welcome employees bringing their own devices, employees’ reactions to the policy may be slightly different. As Torode points out, BYOD schemes can feel a little intrusive to employees, especially those who are keen on maintaining a good work-life balance. “Mobiles purchased solely for business purposes can result in better work-life balance for staff,” said Torode. “While BYOD policies have somewhat lifted the taboo on using smartphones during work hours, they can also have negative effects. “Expecting employees to use their own
handset can lead them to feel as though they must be contactable outside of their scheduled working hours, even if that is not stipulated within their contract. “As a result, this could cause issues when trying to attract and retain Gen Z and millennial employees. Data suggests that younger workers place a higher importance on work-life balance when compared to previous generations, with recent studies showing performance improves as a result of better work-life balance. “Having a dedicated work handset that can be switched off outside of working hours therefore helps to create a culture where employees are satisfied and productive.” New Conditions While there are numerous benefits of mobile telephony, businesses will be wanting value for money too. “Attracting new customers presents a greater challenge for business mobile providers than it once did,” said Torode. “According to data from GfK UK’s Tech360 survey, a quarter of Brits who purchased a new device in 2023 opted for a second-hand or refurbished model. “With longer replacement cycles now the norm, the research shows that consumers will only purchase a new device if the features offered are innovative enough. Given the increasing cost pressures facing SMEs, it is likely that this attitude will hold true for many businesses too. According to Miri, convenience is the top concern of businesses when deciding to offer Mobile services to their employees.
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Ash Miri Founder
airlandline.co.uk
Mobiles purchased solely for business purposes can result in better work-life balance for staff
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