Mind Your Manners - Amy Palec

Tip of the Month for June 2005
Cell Phone Etiquette

Tips for wireless communication

Cell phone users are everywhere. From the elevator to the boardroom to the grocery store, poor usage is taking over. Technology is prevalent in our society. These tools are meant to speed up our transactions and improve our efficiency but they are not meant to replace human interaction. Social graces are still important when using these tools.

Let your voicemail take your calls when you are in meetings, restaurants or other busy areas. If you must speak to the caller, excuse yourself and find a private area. Alert the person you are with that you are expecting a call and get permission to take the call when it comes in.

Use your vibrate mode or turn off your phone in public places such as movies, meeting, religious services and restaurants.

Taking and making calls when driving has become one of the leading reasons for accidents. Be aware of what you are doing and don’t be so quick to take calls if you are in heavy traffic.

When talking on the phone in public, keep your voice down; be aware of your surroundings. Don’t make your business someone else’s business.

I was on the train coming back from Chicago and overheard a gentleman’s calls. It was apparent the first conversation was with his wife. The second was with another individual with whom he was apparently intimate. I watched the other passengers on the train and we all couldn’t believe the obvious. It is difficult for others to not listen to you when you are on the phone.

Let the person on the other line know where you are and that others are around; they may not wish to discuss certain matters knowing you are surrounded by others listening in on the conversation.

Be aware that people can have limited free minutes on their cell phone plan. Professionals often pay for their own cellular service. Ask if this is a good time or the length of the discussion so they can determine if they want to pay for this conversation. Be mindful when casually dialing.

It seems cell phone usage is becoming the number one irritating issue with our society. Yet, people continue to use poor etiquette when making or receiving calls. Once again this tool has broadened our productivity, but not meant to take over air space. Be considerate to those around you.

Mind Your Manners specializes in seminars and consulting services in business etiquette and international protocol. For more information, please contact Amy Palec at (262) 376-0515 or visit her web site www.amypalec.com.