Golden Rules for Using Cell Phones in Public Areas
You’re out and about minding your own business and the next thing you know, it happens. Your peace is interrupted by a loud animated person chattering on their cell phone. Sound familiar?
Research shows over 90 percent of adults use cell phones. With all those conversations happening, perhaps some people don’t realize their mobile manners are intrusive.
Cell phone conversations aren’t inherently rude, but all have the potential to become intrusive. Clearly there’s a lack of understanding of what is and isn’t acceptable in terms of cellphone etiquette.
Gentle Reminders For A Polite Cellular World:
Pay attention to personal space. It’s impossible for innocent bystanders to tune out loud conversations.
You may feel somewhat anonymous in a crowd of people. Be mindful that people might be paying attention to you.
When receiving a call in a small area such as a waiting room, let it go to voicemail (of course you remembered to put your phone on silent)
Use good judgement when picking a ring tone. Jarring ring tones should be avoided or at least minimized in public spaces.
If you absolutely can’t resist an incoming call, find a better location to talk.
When you receive an urgent call find an empty room or go out to a calmer place.
Keep cell phone conversations quiet (Use your inside voice)
Keep cell phone conversations in public spaces brief.
Resist the urge to be an entertainer. You may have a listening audience but, save being in the conversational limelight for person to person interactions.
Resist sending the message that your conversation is more important than what is going on around you.
The Golden Rule for Cell Phone use in public, use common sense and common courtesy.
