Cell phones are common, but that doesn’t make them easy to ignore. In any society, it’s important to adhere to certain manners, and ours definitely couldn’t function without them. Master the unwritten constitution of cell phone etiquette, and keep your corner of society flowing smoothly and efficiently.
Cell Phone Etiquette
It’s important to maintain cell phone etiquette during all daily situations. When you don’t observe etiquette, you may come across as rude or unprofessional to those around you. Always be aware of your cell phone, and you’ll remember how and when to stick to the rules.
Vibrate
When you enter a business or your place of work, turn your phone on vibrate. Noisy ringtones are distracting in restaurants, movie theaters, stores and all indoor, public locations. It’s fine to leave the sound on if you’re outside, at a friend’s house or in your car; otherwise, turn the ringer off to avoid disturbing those around you.
Ringtones
Always choose ringtones that are suitable for listeners of all ages. Pick songs containing no profanity or overtly adult references. Your phone might ring at any time, and you want to make sure it’s not offensive to those around you when it does.
Voice Modulation
You don’t have to yell into the phone. Cell phone technology is pretty sophisticated, so use your normal speaking voice at all times. It’s very distracting to everyone around you if your voice is raised, and it will be viewed as disruptive and rude by all.
Excuse Yourself
Always acknowledge the people you’re with, and excuse yourself before you step away and take an incoming cell phone call. A simple word to those around you before you accept the call will speak volumes about your manners.
Pictures
In most cases, you should always ask before you take a picture of someone. Don’t take pictures of people at the gym, while they’re sleeping or during other compromising moments. Use good judgment when you take pictures, and you’ll be exercising good etiquette.
Keep It Professional
Don’t discuss personal topics on your phone when you’re out in public. It’s fine to chat intimately with friends if you’re at home, but otherwise keep the conversation professional. Someone might overhear you, and then all parties will be embarrassed and uncomfortable.
Stay Present
Even if you’re engaged with your cell phone, always be present in the world that’s happening around you. People you can see are always a priority over people who are connected to you via cell phone. Remember to acknowledge others, and for your own safety pay attention to what’s going on nearby. Do not text and drive or use your phone and drive. Paying attention to your phone when you are driving or walking on a city sidewalk isn’t just rude, it’s dangerous.
Other Unwritten Rules
Good cell phone etiquette doesn’t just apply to friends, acquaintances and strangers who are in close proximity to you; it applies to every aspect of your cell usage. If you run out of minutes and end up spending half a month ignoring all your friends’ calls, it’s certainly not good manners. It’s also bad manners if you end up being late on your cell phone bill, or if you have to stop paying because you can’t afford the cost. Cell phone contracts are real contracts and will really affect your credit.
There is a wide variety of Android phones that fit your budget and don’t require a contractual obligation of any sort. When you run out of minutes, callers will be sent straight to your voice mail. You won’t have to wait for the end of the month to get the messages. You add time to prepaid cell phones whenever you need time, which means you can’t possibly go over your minutes and wind up with a huge bill. Adding minutes is an easy process you can complete over the phone.
Always practice good cell phone etiquette, and mind your manners, to show people around you that you’re a functioning member of society. You’ll gain more respect in business, look more thoughtful to loved ones and show acquaintances that you’re considerate.
