Cell Phone Etiquette

Some may view cell phone etiquette as subjective. There are, however, a few basic guidelines that have been accepted as good manners when dealing with cell phones. If you're unsure about what you are doing, the best thing to do is just use good judgment. If somebody was doing what you were doing, think how that might make you feel. If it bothers you, chances are good it is bothering those around you.

Speaking Volume

The most common cell phone error is the perceived need to speak louder into your phone. Unless there is overpowering surrounding noise, chances are you don't need to scream into the phone. Use a regular speaking voice. Talk about as loud as you would talk into your house phone. Even with smaller phones, where the speaker is away from your mouth, you don't need to talk loudly. The speaker will pick you up just fine, and you won't bother those around you.

Interrupting Conversations

In short, don't do it. If you are speaking to somebody when your phone rings, casually turn it off and finish the conversation. You can easily see who called you, and return the call later, when it will not be rude to the person you are speaking with. Obviously, if you are awaiting a very important call, it is alright to interrupt the conversation, but it is best to explain why you are doing. If possible, let the person know ahead of time that the call may be coming in. Apologize when you are finished with the call. Then turn the phone off, so it will not ring again.

Movies, Theaters, and Auditoriums

If you are asked to turn off your cell phone, that means turn it off completely. Vibrate is not off and neither is silent. Any calls you miss will be logged on the phone, and can be returned later. Checking your phone while in a movie, theater, or auditorium is unacceptable, and very aggravating to those around you. Talking on your phone is worse. Turn the phone off to avoid temptation.

Texting

Texting falls under the same rules as talking when you are with somebody. If you are talking to somebody, pay attention to them. Texting while they speak is not only rude, but divides your attention so you will most likely need them to repeat themselves. Texting while driving is dangerous, in addition to being rude to your passengers.

The Other Person

If you come across somebody you need to speak with, and they are on a cell phone, the same rules apply as any other phone. Wait for them to acknowledge you, or to finish their conversation. Unless it is life or death, interrupting them will just be considered rude. Use your best judgment.

On a Date

Turn off your cell phone before your date arrives. The only person you need to talk to is your date. If you have a pending call, let them know at the start of the date, and apologize in advance. If the call comes, take the phone outside before answering. Come back to the table, apologize again, and then turn it off for good. Your cell phone should never come out from the time the date starts, to the time the date ends. This goes for checking the time, too. Wear a watch instead.