Phone Etiquette at Work

Phone etiquette at work centers on being courteous to both the caller and your co-workers. Now that cell phones are an everyday item, how they are used in the office also falls under this topic.

Answer Promptly

Answer your desk phone within two or three rings. The noise of a ringing phone can be distracting to others.

Politeness

Always be professional during business calls, even if you know the person very well. Remain calm if someone calls who is very angry---you don't want to get into a loud argument that everyone can hear.

Voicemail

Set your phone to have your messages automatically go to your voicemail if you will be away from your desk for a long time. It cuts down on unnecessary noise in the office.

Cellphone

Shut off your cellphone at work or set it to vibrate. Only use it in a private area where others can't hear you.

Personal Conversations

Whether your mother calls on your office phone or you've stepped outside to chat with someone, keep personal conversations brief so you don't fall behind on work and co-workers don't overhear.

Bathroom

Don't use your cellphone in the bathroom unless you are texting someone. Other people can hear your conversation and the person you are talking to can hear the noises from the bathroom.

References

• Proper Cell Phone Etiquette at Work
• Telephone Etiquette Guide