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Drawbacks of Using an Instant Messenger Program

As with any type of technology, there are many drawbacks in addition to the benefits. It is the same with instant messaging. Although a great number of people use it, it may not be for everyone. However, below are some of the potential drawbacks and how they may actually be a blessing in disguise, in addition to ways to handle these drawbacks correctly.

Always Accessible
To many, this is a burden. Many workers and employees do not like being available to other co-workers during their entire work day because it disrupts them from their work, potentially making them less productive.

The solution to this is to use away messages when in the middle of a large work project. In your away message, you can write, “Busy. Feel free to email me at name@email.com” or “Unavailable to Use IM”. Keep it simple and professional.

Distracting
For others, it may be distracting to have an instant messaging program on consistently. A user may find themselves constantly checking their buddy list in order to see who else is online and who may be available to talk.

To combat this, simply sign off the instant messenger, if your employer allows it. This will prevent users from contacting you and from getting distracted by checking your buddy list on a regular basis.

Less Face-To-Face Interaction
This may be one of the most popular arguments against instant messaging. However, instant messaging is more efficient that face-to-face interaction because employees do not have to leave their desks in order to have a conversation. They can continue working on other things while they are chatting with someone.

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