MODERN CELL PHONE MANNERS AND ETIQUETTE TIPS Maria Gamero
DO 1.
Silent Smartphone: It’s polite and responsible to turn off your cell phone before meetings, meals, and meaningful moments.
2.
Excuse Me: If accepting an emergency call, excuse yourself as quietly and calmly as possible from the gathering with an apology.
3.
Consider Content Carefully: With cell phones, spontaneity can be contagious. Remember, once a text, tweet or post is sent, it’s live.
4.
Respond promptly: When you miss a call, text, or email, respond in an appropriate and timely manner by apologizing for missing their message. Then respond with substance.
5.
10-foot rule: When making or taking a call, move 10 feet away from the building including windows. No one wants to see you nervously pacing or gesturing during your conversation
DON’T 1. 2.
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5.
Don’t Talk & Drive: Many cities now ban smartphone use while driving, including Austin, Texas. If you must use the phone, drive to a safe area away from traffic. Don’t yell. You may not realize it yourself, but we all tend to raise our voice volume when speaking on our cell phones. If the person can’t hear you, speak closer to the microphone and/or make use of a cupped hand. Don’t argue in public. As previously stated, most people around you can hear your conversation. Even if you take measures to move away from people, you are likely to raise your voice, calling attention to yourself. Don’t make people wait. You are devaluing their time. When you’re at a restaurant or in line to order, put your phone away so that you’re ready when they get to you. You’re not only making the staff wait, but you’re also making everyone else wait. Don’t text and drive. Just don’t. It can wait – put your phone away for the safety of yourself and others.