Is there proper cell phone etiquette? The biggest rule to remember is that telephones are not to be used in a restaurant in any way. As technology advances, so does the need to add onto the ever-growing...
As technology advances, so does the need to add onto the ever-growing list of "proper etiquette" rules. One example of this would be proper cell phone etiquette. Naomi Polson, who received her etiquette certificate in Washington DC and is the Founding Director of The Etiquette Company, addresses a common complaint when she advises, "The biggest rule to remember is that telephones are not to be used in a restaurant in any way because People left the office so that they can enjoy their lunch or dinner. It is extremely rude to either start a conversation or receive a telephone call while other people are dining."
It has been said that the only people who should ever have their cell phone turned on while eating with others are those that are in the profession of saving lives such as doctors or firefighters. Not only is it offensive to your personal dining companions to be ignored as if they are not important, but the ringing of a cell phone can be quite distracting to the other restaurant patrons as well. Not to mention that, with a lot of cellular users, reception might not be as good indoors and speaking loudly or shouting is considered to be bad manners in any public situation. If you are expecting an important call and have no choice other then to be notified the minute that it is received, make arrangements beforehand, keep your cell phone on vibrate, properly excuse yourself from the table and go outside to call them back.
In fact, you should be aware of others while using your cell phone in any public place. They are meant to be a convenience, yes, but do not let your conversations become an offense to others that are trying to mind there own business. Keep private conversations confidential. Do not "air your dirty laundry" for the world to hear. How do you tell if you are speaking to loudly or offending those around you? Well, if there are any frowns, the shaking of heads or if others need to move away from you or cover their children's ears, you can be pretty certain that you are making a serious faux pas.
Another aspect of cell phone etiquette, that has as much to do with safety as it does with manners, is the use of them while driving. Many states are now passing laws that require you to pull over if you need to talk in you vehicle or have a hands free headset. Cell phone use while driving is fast becoming one of the top reasons for car accidents. Even with a headset, concentrating on driving and being engaged in a conversation can still be considered "bad manners". Number one, you should always have your entire focus on the road because you usually only have a few seconds to react to any particular dangerous situation and number two, when speaking on the phone to someone, they also deserve your full consideration. It is never a good idea to try and split your attention between the two, no matter how you look at it.
When it comes to proper cell phone etiquette, like so many other rules of propriety, it all comes down to two things: respect for others and common sense. Make sure to have both before you answer in public.
