Is this bad office phone Etiquette?

Question

It seems a few people in my office like to talk on the hands free speaker phone. Now I can see doing this if you extremely tied up with your hands or if you have more than one person in your office participating in the conversation

But for the sake of just doing it really annoys me, I don't want to hear their conversation, and if I can hear it clear across the room, then they are too loud. Am I just being an *** or is this a Etiquette thing that should be addressed?

Answer 1

It is bad office etiquette. Go to your HR department and ask if there is anything you can do to change the policy.

It is creating a loud and intrusive work-place.

That is what closed office doors are for, and if you don't have a door to close- you need to address it.

Answer 2

It's the latter.  A large part of etiquette is to avoid unnecessary intrusion on the comfort and privacy of others.  As you pointed out, there is often no need for someone to use a speakerphone.  A little common sense and consideration goes a long way to keep the peace.

Answer 3

I agree. It's kinda rude. Address it if the problem continues and does not correct itself.

Be able to give specific examples, such as (haha) "Jim, I was able to hear you having phone s** with your girlfriend from across the building."

The embarrassment alone may be enough to shut these loud-mouthed coworkers up!

Answer 4

needs addressing

Answer 5

Address the issue, but not in a confrontational manner:  Phone the offenders, and when you are placed on hands free, thank them for the weekend but suggest they "go to the doctor and get checked soon".  That should solve your problem with immediate effect.

Answer 6

It may depend upon who's doing it, I'm afraid. I say this because some managers like to run around here on their cell phones and what's worse is when they try to carry on 2 conversations at once. I almost always need to ask clarifying questions. It's never enough information.

Ex. Do a mailer.   If it's your colleagues, I would address it as quietly and as politely as possible. You may not realize it but it's a little annoying when I have to listen to your conversations. I understand if there's no alternative. But is there something you can do to either limit the amount?  

One person who is near me is loud most of the time. It's usually personal stuff, stories that I hear 5 times at least. She can be quiet on the phone at other times. I haven't had the nerve to say anything. It takes guts and courage to say something. She has been here decades and I haven't. I don't want to get on her bad side as she's one of the smart people here.

Answer 7

It should be addressed, first of all it disturbs others from  doing their job and management should be concerned bout it the most.

Answer 8

I agree with you, it distracts others from their work.