It used to be impressive, very impressive, to own a cell phone. In the late 80’s, when cell phones were two feet long and weighed about five pounds, it was impressive to see someone set their cell phone on the dining or conference table – you KNEW they were important! Remember the 1987 movie, Wall Street? Gordon Gekko walked along the beach plotting his next financial takeover on his huge cell phone – you KNEW he was somebody!
Well, guess what? It’s 2012, and everyone has a cell phone, I-phone, Droid or even an old flip phone. Even ten-year-old Susie and 11 year-old Johnny have cell phones. So, the next time you think about whipping out your mobile device at the dining table or during a business meeting, setting it on the table or checking it every 15 seconds to see if you’ve missed something, try to remember that the person in front of you is what’s important. Impress them with your ability to focus on them. Now, that’s Cell Phone Etiquette!
Top 5 Cell Phone Etiquette Tips
- Always turn your phone on mute while in a business meeting, theatre, or while dining.
- Never set your phone on the table while in a meeting or while dining. Doing so sends a clear message to the person you’re meeting with or the person you’re dining with that they are not important.
- Your cell phone conversation is not private. What’s more annoying than listening to the intimate details of a stranger’s weekend while standing in line to get coffee or while in the restroom?
- Excuse yourself if you must take a call. The call may be important to you, but you’re also important to the person with you.
- Don’t talk on your cell phone, play games or send text messages in front of someone who expects your attention including doctors, business partners, grocery store clerks or friends.
- BONUS TIP: If the airline asks you to turn off your cell phone, do it. Words With Friends can wait.
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