For many of us, our cell phones are more constant companions than the family dog. With apps and other features making them relevant to almost all areas of life, it’s no wonder we treat them almost like an extension of ourselves. But with this Brave New World comes a brave new code of conduct. Follow these rules of cell phone etiquette and you won’t be “that guy” putting his gadget before the people around him.
1. Stay socially present.
We’ve all stared in horror as a date or dinner companion saw fit to reply to a text message mid-conversation. If you’ve arranged to spend time with someone, don’t tell them they’re not important enough to keep your attention by pecking away at your cell phone. Let voicemail keep track of your calls—even the couple at the next table might be distracted by your one-sided blabbing.
2. Teach by example.
Cell phone use comes even more naturally to the younger generation. They might find texting as instinctive as breathing, but if you show them the direct person-to-person attention that cell phones often shortcut, young people have a better chance of keeping technology in its place and not going through life with their eyes glued to a screen.
3. Don’t text and drive.
Texting on the road makes you 23 times more likely to have an accident. That’s a lot more compelling than any text you could be tempted to write behind the wheel. Wait to text until you’re safely parked to avoid turning your car into an accordion and risking lives (including your own).
4. Be aware of background noises.
Just because they can’t see that you’ve walked into a bathroom doesn’t mean they can’t hear what happens next. It can be tempting to keep talking, but know that the person on the line will be able to guess what you’re doing. Save the phone calls for after you’ve taken care of business.
5. Keep arguments private.
One side of a phone argument will either arouse prying curiosity or annoyance in those around you. However frustrating the conversation, you’re the one who ends up looking like a short-fused nut. Try to take care of conflicts in person or in private.
6. Watch your language.
Rude jokes and colorful language might be a part of your repertoire among close friends and associates, but keep in mind how often you’ve overheard odd snips of phone conversations as you walk down the street. Your audience can be larger than intended, so make sure you’re not subjecting innocent bystanders to language or subject matter you would never use directly.
7. Be mindful of cell phone-free zones.
Some places just aren’t appropriate for cell phone use, be they churches, libraries, playhouses or movie theaters. We can all agree that a ringing phone in the middle of Batman’s daring rescue kind of kills the magic, but remember that the screen on a cell phone glows brightly enough to use as an impromptu flashlight. Keep it under wraps until the lights go up.
8. Show respect to service personnel.
When the server isn’t sure whether you’re ordering or chatting to Aunt Carol, you need to put the phone away. Your cashier has a long line to deal with, getting longer while you finish that text. Help service personnel their do jobs well by being present and courteous.
