Small business owners are being urged to impose tighter controls on employees using mobile technology to work remotely.

According to a survey for Nokia, 75% of senior managers admit emailing clients outside working hours despite four out of five (82%) saying they believed such behaviour was inappropriate.

The research also revealed that 46% do not consider the sensitivity of the email or location when they are on the move.

“While there are clear benefits, there is the risk that ‘on-the-go emailers’ leave required business protocol back at the office and don’t give client correspondence the due care and attention it demands,” said Andrew Hawkins, UK head of Nokia Enterprise Solutions.

On a more positive note, 87% claimed mobile technology increased productivity and 77% thought it boosted staff motivation.