Excessive cell phone use in social or professional settings has become one of the greatest threats to etiquette, making phone manners increasingly important. So what should you be mindful of when using your phone, and when is it appropriate to call someone?
1. In all public settings, store your phone in an appropriate, conventional location when not in use.Avoid holding it in your hand or leaving it hanging outside your jacket pocket when not in use. Standard locations include: 1) a briefcase carried with you—the most formal option; 2) an inside jacket pocket. Occasionally, you may temporarily place it on your belt, or in an inconspicuous spot like beside you, behind you, or in a handbag. Never leave it on the table, especially not facing a client you're conversing with.
2. During meetings or negotiations, it's best to turn off your phone or at least set it to vibrate. This shows respect for others and avoids interrupting the speaker. A phone ringing incessantly in a meeting room, suggesting you're overly busy, draws unwanted attention and reflects poorly on your manners.Avoid checking messages where others can see you. Glancing at your phone while conversing is disrespectful.
3. Those mindful of phone etiquette refrain from calls while driving, on planes, in theaters, libraries, or hospitals. Even speaking loudly on buses is considered rude.In certain settings, such as during movies or theater performances, using a phone is highly inappropriate. If you must respond, sending a silent text message may be more suitable. 4. When calling someone, especially if you know they hold an important position and are busy, first consider whether it's convenient for them to answer at that moment. Be prepared for the possibility that they may be unavailable.When calling someone, pay attention to the echoes heard through the receiver to gauge their surroundings. If it's very quiet, they might be in a meeting; a large, echoing space could indicate a conference hall. If you hear background noise, they're likely outdoors. This preliminary assessment helps prepare you for the call's feasibility.Regardless of the situation, it's best to let the other person decide whether to talk. Therefore, "Is now a good time to talk?" is typically the first question when calling a mobile phone.
In reality, without prior arrangement or familiarity with the person, it's difficult to know when they're available to take a call. So, when other contact methods are available, it's better to avoid calling their mobile phone whenever possible.