How to Unplug at the Office

Many businesses now require that their employees be "unplugged" - from laptops, BlackBerrys, iPhones and other devices - during face-to-face meetings. The trend is in response to too many workers being distracted by technology when they're supposed to be connecting with each other.

Being "always on" can be a real turnoff to really listening to people sitting right in front of you. Aside from just being rude, continuous partial attention generally leads to partial results. Unfortunately, even offsite corporate retreats and events can be unproductive with a constantly plugged-in team, making more eye contact with their screens than other team members.

Disconnect to Connect: Frustrated by workers so plugged in that they tune out in the middle of business? Consider going "topless," as in no laptops allowed. Ban the use of BlackBerrys, iPhones and other devices from the conference room. Remove chairs and have stand up meetings. Focus on one thing at a time - like the person who is doing the talking.

Consider incorporating the following activities, designed for human resources and other management staff looking to inspire their teams.

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