Cellular Phone Etiquette 101

By: Miko de la Cruz

A cellular phone could be considered as one of the foremost blessings of modern technology that has been given to man. It could also be considered as one of the frequent nuisances in our daily lives. A phone conversation made at the worst possible place or time could be an annoyance at best, or be fatal at its worst ( e.g. taking a phone call or texting while driving). A simple way of having proper cellular phone etiquette could save a load of trouble from irritated looks and complaints from those around you. Below is a list of must-do’s taken from the website http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-cell-phone-etiquette.htmI. Read on. It might save your life (either socially or physically).

1. When a Private Conversation Isn’t Possible. Intimate public settings such as restaurants, public restrooms, waiting rooms, hallways, buses, subways or anywhere a private conversation is not possible is a bad place for a cell phone conversation. To practice good cell phone etiquette, put the ringer on vibrate or silent mode and let the call roll over to voice mail. If it’s an important call, step outside or to a secluded area to return the call. If that’s not possible and you must take the call, keep your voice low and the conversation brief. Let the caller know you’ll get back to them when you’re able.

2. Lights Out, Phone Off. Phones should be turned off in movie theaters, playhouses, observatories or any other public place that creates an atmosphere to transport the imagination of the audience. People pay good money to be entertained and a ringer breaks the illusion. The same should also apply to places of worship (the church) where people come to be solemn and pray to God.

3. Modulate Your Voice. Cell phones have sensitive microphones that can pick up a very soft voice while blocking out ambient noise. Yelling into a cell phone is not necessary. When people are nearby, be considerate and keep your voice low, your tone unemotional and even, and your conversation private. Arguing or airing dirty laundry in public is very poor cell phone etiquette.

4. Observe the 10-foot Proximity Rule. Maintain a distance of at least 10-feet (3 meters) from the nearest person when talking on a cell phone. No matter how quietly you speak, if standing too close to others they are forced to overhear your personal business.

5. Keep It Short. Keep public conversations brief and get back to the caller when you’re not in a public place.

6. Love the One You’re With. It’s rude to take a cell phone call on a date or during a social engagement with others. It’s also inconsiderate to take a call in the middle of a conversation. If the caller were present he or she would likely wait to politely interrupt at a more appropriate time. Let the call roll to voice mail and return it later.

7. Drive Now, Talk Later. Multitasking isn’t always a good thing. Some evidence shows that accidents are on the rise due to cell phone use. Most calls can wait until you’ve reached your destination, and if a call is upsetting or distracting pull over to have the conversation.

8. Use Common Sense. Turn off your phone before a job interview, presentation, or boardroom meeting. Leave it off at funerals, weddings, or anyplace a quiet atmosphere is mandated, such as a courthouse, library, museum, or place of worship.
Cell phone etiquette is just a matter of being considerate of others, which pays off for everyone./TE