Google Glass is one of newest gadgets to have the tech-scene buzzing. The wearable technology, also referred to as Glass, consists of a small, Wi-Fi-enabled module that is attached to an otherwise ordinary pair of eyeglasses, explained BLR® Legal Editor Holly Jones recently in an article on HR.BLR.com®.
Among other capabilities, the wearer has access to a heads-up display, which can be used to view maps, browse websites, communicate with or without video, send texts and social media posts, etc.
Jones discussed the impact Glass could have on businesses if it made its way into the workplace. From privacy concerns to possible productivity drops, employers will have to pay close attention if and when employees start donning Glass in the workplace.
However, it’s not just employees who could bring this high-tech eyewear into the office. A recent GigaOM article discussed the possibility of applicants using Glass to help them during an interview.
Editor Kevin C. Tofel recently pondered whether a Google Glass app, called My Monitor, could be used as a sort of interview coach for job applicants. The app, which was created to assist with Autism Spectrum Disorder, provides the wearer feedback to help regulate his or her voice and eye level.
This could be a huge help to some applicants. In fact, a recent survey found that 72 percent of hiring managers consider failing to make eye contact as one of the top mistakes job applicants can make.
Granted, at this point, we think the hiring manager may pay more attention to the applicant’s futuristic eyewear than to whether the interviewee is maintaining eye contact.
Interesting. I wonder if employers would be required under the ADA to allow certain applicants to wear Glass during interviews. If so, would you then also have allow other applicants the same opportunity so they wouldn’t be at a disadvantage?