Cell Phone Etiquette
by Judith Bowman on 10/20/14
Most people don't intend to be rude at the dinner table, in meetings, at social gatherings, on dates, however, rampant use of cell phones has become a habit. In fact, for many, cell/IT devices are considered an addiction. 90% of all Americans own a cell phone and 29% say they can't imagine life without them.An errant phone alarm, a rogue text, a program attendee thumbing a phone surreptitiously is insulting to the speaker. The mere presence of a phone is suggestive and insulting and suggests that someone or something else may be more important. Should you choose to use your device in the presence of others, alert them in advance and then, if the call/text comes through 1. Apologize and 2. Excuse yourself and 3. Then take the call or address the message outside of public purview.
It is courteous and good business practice to limit your attention to your IT devices and focus on people at hand.
Top tips to raise the cell phone bar:
- As soon as you reach your destination: cell phones and pagers: Off! … And out of sight. Place in briefcase or purse.
- Mobile devices should not be part of the business luncheon place setting.
- In meetings, if the phone must be on display, turn to silent or vibrate mode.
- Check email and respond to texts after the meeting. Not doing so suggests that the speaker is unimportant. Perceptions are real; appear engaged/as a team player.
- Keep voice tones low and conversations short.
- Make sure ring tones are consistent with your professional message.
Blatant use of cell phones socially and in business in front of others with whom we have prearranged time is downright rude, personally insulting and reflects poorly on the offender… and it's not just "the kids" who are the offenders. We have a real epidemic on our hands. Take the initiative to practice these tips and be the example. Coworkers and friends will notice and everyone will benefit.
In today's technology-driven workforce, awareness of appropriate cell phone usage is imperative. It is not only courteous but smart business to show respect for others by limiting attention to our IT devices. Most people don't intentionally set out to be rude, we just get into bad habits. Because many companies do not have policies regarding cell phone usage, we all have an opportunity to lead by example!
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