Cellular Phone Use – Etiquette Tips & Advice

Have you ever been to a concert or meeting and been distracted by someone's ringing cell phone? Many people just don't understand that cellular phone use in public places should be approached with common sense and courtesy. Appropriate cellular phone use, or etiquette, is really just a matter of common sense, but unfortunately some people just don't have common sense, or care and as a result, many public buildings in the U.S. are now banning the use of cellular phones.

We've already been through the debate over "smoke-free" zones, and now libraries, churches, schools, theatres, museums and even some restaurants are, or will be soon, "phone-free" zones. A building with a "no cell phones rule" means that not only are you required to turn off your ringer, but you are not welcome to use your cell phone inside the building at all.

When you are in a building, such as a restaurant or mall, that does allow cell phone use, if your cell phone does ring, answer promptly. If you are expecting an important call, then keep your cell phone close at hand.

Another thing to consider is that when you answer a cell phone in a public place, remember to use you normal tone of voice. There's no need for everyone around you to hear your telephone conversation and if you find yourself in a busy place when a call comes in, let the caller know that you will call them back from a quieter, more private location.

By far, one of the most annoying aspects of public cellular phone usage, are those lengthy or noisy ring tones. Try to keep your ring tone short and at a reasonable sound level.

Many office employees named cell phone rings as one of the worst office disruptions and annoyances. A final word, when you are out in public, set your telephone to vibrate and leave the new ring tone for when you're alone.

Also see; etiquette and cell phones.

Author Notes:

Jack Adams contributes and publishes news editorial to http://www.cell-phones-n-plans.com. A cellular phone industry resource that features service plan comparisons, cellular phone reviews and articles.