Instant Messaging
While IM offers businesses a new way to communicate, it poses some problems. First of all, are employees interacting with business associates or gossiping with friends? If it's the latter, productivity may suffer as staff get sucked into time-wasting chats. Even if it's all business, there could be a risk.
None of the consumer IM services offers secure connections or encryption, so chats can be intercepted. Sensitive business matters should not be discussed using IM. IM users should also be aware that chat sessions can be recorded. How would you react if you discovered that what you thought were private comments had been e-mailed to others or posted on a website? At the very least, it could be embarrassing. If you have confidential communications, consider using the telephone or encrypted e-mail.
IM NowYou may already have IM software on your computer. If so, there should be an icon on your desktop. Double-click it to launch the software, then sign up. Should you not have the program or want another service, here's where to go to learn more and download the programs:
AOL Instant Messenger (AIM)
The instant messaging program you choose depends on which Internet service you already subscribe to and who you want to communicate with. Whichever one you go with, take the time to read the instructions before you begin. It will make IM much more productive and fun.
Last update: Jan 12, 2010
