Did you know that July is Cell Phone Courtesy Month? Neither did we.
We decided to take a few minutes to think about how cell phones are attached to many people.
Think about this:
More than 80% of adults in the U.S. own a cell phone.
90% of adults have their phones within an arm’s length radius at all times.
(Source: Spinfold)
Because of this data and much more like it, people have begun to notice that some people lack certain etiquette when using their cell phones. Whether it’s children or adults texting and driving, reading a text during an in-person conversation, using a phone in a class or meeting, etc., people are realizing that cell phone use is interfering with people’s lives. For this reason, we decided to gather ten rules for practicing cell phone courtesy.
10 Rules for Cell Phone Courtesy
- At the Grocery Store – while waiting in line at a grocery store, or any other type of store, try to keep conversations at bay. Many people find that people who use cell phones while waiting in a line are rude, loud, and not paying attention (cashier’s repeating amount due etc.). Try to switch the conversation to text or hang up until you’ve paid for your items.
- In Public – if you’re in a public setting, try to keep your voice lowered and don’t discuss personal or confidential information. You never know who might be listening. Also, if you’re out and about with family and/or friends, consider switching your phone off or to silent.
- Texting vs. Calling – know what and when it is appropriate to text or call someone. Many people try to do too much via text so know when you need to call someone.
- Meetings – if you’re in a meeting whether it’s for volunteering, work, school, etc., try to not use your phone. Keeping it on or out in case of an emergency is okay but only answer if it’s urgent such as a child is sick or a death in the family. Don’t respond to just respond. It will give off an impression of rudeness and make your colleagues feel disrespected.
- Shouting – DON’T DO IT. No matter the situation that led to the phone conversation, it isn’t polite to those around you or the person on the other end to start a shouting match.
- Private Information – many people think it is okay to text an SSN, DOB, Address etc. via text message but it absolutely is not! Remember, all text messages and even email communication can be forwarded. Always call the trusted source to deliver your information.
- Texting & Driving – DON’T DO IT.
- Dinner Table – avoid using your phone while eating. If you and your family have issues with cell phone use, make it a rule that the phone can’t even be brought to the table.
- Bluetooth Usage – The only real time you should use Bluetooth is in your car or a private setting. You’ll appear to be talking to yourself and might cause confusion if someone doesn’t see your ear pieces.
- Major Events – just put your phone away sometimes. There is a time and place to have your phone out at a major event. If you absolutely have to use your phone, make it quick. Otherwise, just enjoy the moment.
We hope that by sharing these common cell phone courtesy rules, that you and your family become more aware of how cell phone use is interfering with your everyday life. If you have any other tips for limiting cell phone use, please share below.
Sources: The Emily Post Institute, Gazelle.com
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