How to Get Someone to Put Away Their Phone and Actually Listen

Experts note people's attention in the workplace is too often being diverted by some digital device, despite their protests to the contrary, reports the Harvard Business Review . Moreover, a VitalSmarts survey found only 10 percent of people confronted with this situation address the insensitive offender while most ignore such behavior, walk away, or express nonverbal disapproval. To reestablish norms of courtesy, the experts suggest citing study data detailing the bad effects of such behavior in a way that does not unduly shame the offender or make them defensive. Another suggestion is to make it a matter of personal responsibility when trying to correct such habits among individuals, while also meeting the same adherence to social boundaries and vocalizing when others ignore them. In attempting to change a group norm, the leader should ask each member of the group to follow their lead in owning the change.