AmericaNowNews.comPracticing proper cell phone etiquette

Practicing proper cell phone etiquette

How would you grade yourself when it comes to cell phone etiquette? Do you think of others, or never give them a second thought? Our technology expert, Darwyn Metzger, is here with some Do's and Don'ts for more civilized cell use.

More than 85 percent of all Americans now own cell phones and it's leading to the increasing phenomenon known as the phone snub. We've all been there when, half way through a sentence, a friend stops to pick up their cell. Nothing is more awkward than trying to pretend you just didn't get blown off. To answer or to ignore? That is the question.

There are three occasions when it's okay to politely excuse yourself to pick up a cell phone call:

  • Number one: If it's business related, like from your boss.
  • Number two: If it's potentially an emergency.
  • Number three: If it's from your mom. Take the time to pick up the call. There's always time for her.

Just remember one simple rule: The person with you is always more important than the person on the other end of a cell phone call.

One of the places you never ever want to be on the phone is when you're in line ordering food. It is rude and it can be a really de-humanizing moment. So do yourself a favor and tell your friend you'll call him back, because it's all about respect.

You shouldn't speak on your cell phone when you're in an elevator and someone else is on it … or at the library … at a musical performance … in class or even worse, at a funeral. Another place you should never be on your cell phone is in a public restroom. Yet you'll hear people all the time talking on their phones.

Most people don't even realize how loud they speak on their cell phone. And while most of us are okay with trying to ignore loud talkers, sometimes you have to take a more direct approach. Like offering to leave the room in case they want some privacy. After all, you don't want to be rude and eavesdrop on their call. More times than not, they'll take the hint, offer an apology and take their phone call outside. A little suggestion like that can be a great "mute" button.

When it comes to cell phone etiquette, a little common sense goes a long way. So whenever your phone rings, ask yourself this: Would I want someone else to answer their phone at that moment and at that place? If the answer is no, then let it go.

Copyright 2011 America Now.  All rights reserved.

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