Yes, I know. I get “fussed” at, too, for being on my cell phone too much. OK, so here’s the deal. We love our cell phones. They make our lives much more convenient; however, we must be mindful of our behavior with the cell phone if we truly are going to exhibit proper etiquette. Let me give you 10 rules to help. They are:
Don’t speak too loudly. Others present do not wish to hear the details of your conversation, so speak softly when in public, or retreat to a place of privacy.
Be careful that the conversation is not inappropriate for “public ears.”
Don’t answer your phone if you are in the middle of a conversation with someone else. This is simply interrupting, which is not proper etiquette.
Do not check phone messages at the movie theater. This distracts others present.
Absolutely, do not text while driving. This could cost a life.
Do not text while you are speaking with someone else. This is the same as trying to have two conversations with two different people about two different subjects at the same time. This is rude and shows a lack of respect for both conversations.
Do not text “small talk”. It’s OK to text someone specific information, like what time a movie starts, or what time you need to be picked up. But if you want to see how someone is doing, have the courtesy to pick up the phone and call them so you can speak to them personally. It means a lot more.
Try not to have loud, annoying ring tones.
Keep cell phones turned off during live performances.
Location, location, location—there are several places where it is simply inappropriate to accept a call on your cell phone; for instance, the library, a doctor’s office, in a check-out or order line. Just consider those around you before you take your next cell phone call, and be sure it is not going to distract others or be a nuisance to those around you.
Very best,
Monica Irvine
CEO/The Etiquette Factory
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