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Instant Messaging: Not just for Teens anymore

Do you remember the days when instant messaging was geared towards teenagers and not too many other age groups? This was only five or ten years ago, but things have changed quite a bit since then. Sure, some instant messaging programs, such as AIM, are still popular among teens. But many other players have joined the industry. Some of the newer applications have decided to target a different demographic. For instance, Brosix is for the corporate environment as opposed to teens and college kids who simply want to communicate on a personal level.

More and more businesses are choosing instant messaging over email, phone calls, and even face-to-face meetings. The reason for this is the same as why teenagers have used instant messaging for many years: it is quick, efficient, and downright fun at times. While you may not think it, all of these benefits translate nicely into the corporate world.

As you may be aware, many parents set limits for when their child can use instant messaging and other related computer programs. While this may sound juvenile, most companies are doing the same thing. After all, instant messaging can be a distraction; for employees a distraction from their work, and for teens a distraction from other tasks such as homework. If you are a company owner or team leader, you need to set limits on how often instant messaging is allowed to be used. To go along with this, set parameters on what is to be discussed through IM and what would be better off within other modes of communication.

Gone are the days when instant messaging was only for teens. Companies all over the world have realized the benefits of using this tool to communicate within an office setting.

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