Cell Phone Etiquette
Cell phone purchases come with instructions for operation. They don’t come with basic guidelines for etiquette and social curtesy. If you’re showing only your forehead to friends, family and co-workers, read no further. Otherwise, follow these basic rules of curtesy and respect when using your cell phone established by the professional etiquette experts.
Most cell phone use should be common courtesy; but unfortunately that’s not always the case. If you’ve just taken advantage of the awesome deals offered by Groupon coupons and secured a new cell plan from the fabulous options available through T-Mobile, take it one step further and commit to using your cell phone with respect for those around you.
The biggest piece of advice is to truly be in the moment. You know the feeling when you’re trying to have a conversation with someone and their constantly looking over your shoulder at the rest of the crowd? This is the message you’re sending when you stay glued to your cell phone on the company of others. If you must take a call, excuse yourself and step into another room or away from earshot. Limit this to true emergencies. When dining out or as a guest in someone’s home, the absolute worst place to put your cell phone is on the dining table. Turn it off and leave it in your handbag or pocket. Let those you’re with know they’re your priority. If your peers are on their phones, don’t join in. Your self-control will be contagious. Is there really anything on social media that can’t be missed for a mere hour or two? Think about your priorities and quite possibly your growing addiction.
When in the office, the same rules of cell phone etiquette apply. When heading into a meeting, turn your phone off before entering the room. Take the opportunity the few minutes before the meeting starts and actually engage with your co-workers. Do not look at your phone when a presenter is in the middle of a key presentation. Follow the same courtesies in the office as in public spaces, gathering with your friends and families when you’re on the job. Many companies have instituted cell phone policies for just this reason.