Cell phones have become so ubiquitous in India that their misuse is already annoying others in public places. We bring you these tips for good phone eqtiquette, courtesy Verizon.
1. At work: Avoid being annoying in the office with these tips.
By Michael Swearingen
The use of mobile devices in the workplace is more popular than ever before. One in three people use their mobile devices for work calls, and another 82 percent use text messaging for business. This surge in workplace device usage makes it necessary to employ proper mobile phone etiquette at work. Employees can use apps to improve digital collaboration around the office, but should also maintain common courtesies while in the workplace.
Here are a couple of tips to keep in mind to exercise proper mobile phone etiquette at work:
DO turn your ringer to vibrate or silent. Remember that you share a space with others, so keep your ringer off when bringing your mobile phone into meetings. Doing so will help keep calls or notifications from being disruptive. If you must keep your ringer on, select a discreet, professional ringtone and keep it on the quietest setting possible.
DO remember to include an email signature on messages that come from your mobile phone or tablet. This is often overlooked and emails from mobile devices only have your name and the type of device the message was sent from. It’s important to include your work contact information so people can easily respond to you.
DON’T take personal calls at your desk if you share close space with co-workers. This can be distracting to those sitting near you and can make for an uncomfortable atmosphere if you’re discussing private matters.
DON’T take a call or text if you are having a face-to-face conversation with someone. Let the call go to voicemail and read your text after you finish your conversation.
While implementing the above tips into your workplace habits is a big step forward in improving your mobile device etiquette at work, there are also devices you can use to be even more respectful of your co-workers.
- Conference calls tend to emit a lot of feedback from multiple phone lines. Ensure you are heard clearly with an easy to use Bluetooth device like the Plantronics Flex-Grip Headset. The noise-canceling microphone reduces background noise and feedback others may hear while talking to you.
- Enjoy listening to music while you work? Beats urBeats In-Ear Headphones have impeccable sound quality and double as a discreet headset for taking calls.
- Recharge devices quickly: Multiple USB inputs are compatible with just about any USB-charged device, and the compact size makes it easy to store and share with coworkers.
Just remember, as mobile devices become more of a necessity in the workplace, be considerate of those around you.
2. In public transport: Smart cellphone etiquette for public transit
Tips and tools for practicing polite cellphone use.
You’ve just boarded the bus after a grueling day and you’re looking forward to a peaceful ride home, when in marches a human megaphone talking on a smartphone, and who, of course, sits right next to you.
To avoid being “that person,” follow these tips to help with digital etiquette when traveling on public transportation.
Answer calls and converse the right way: Keep your personal conversations personal, or try not to have them at all while in transit. If you must carry on a conversation, keep your voice low and do not have it over speakerphone. The people around you don’t need to hear your conversation. A good rule of thumb is to keep a physical distance of 10 feet between you and a fellow commuter when having a conversation on your phone. If you receive a non-urgent call, it’s acceptable to either let it go to voicemail or answer the call and tell the caller you need to call them back. Another alternative is to have a text message conversation instead.
Place your phone on silent or vibrate: You can’t help it if friends and family call you while on public transportation, but you can control your phone’s volume. Though you may find serenity in hearing your Iron Maiden “Hallowed Be Thy Name” ringtone, it might evoke a different response from those near you. So offer your fellow commuters the same tranquility you seek and place your phone on silent or vibrate.
Keep the entertainment to yourself: Be mindful of the eyes and ears nearby who may take offense to your form of mobile entertainment if you use your commute to catch up on TV shows, browse Facebook, or listen to your favorite music. By all means, catch-up on “Walking Dead”, or with Facebook friends, or jam out to your favorite hardcore rap song — just don’t broadcast it. The people sitting next to you shouldn’t hear songs that require censor bleeps.
Instead, invest in a cool pair of Beats Studio Over-Ear Headphones and privacy screen protectors. You will experience clearer sound and feel at ease knowing you’re the only one viewing photos from your friend’s party.
Being mobile means you can stay connected while you’re on the go. Just make sure your manners go along with you. Be considerate of the people around you and spread the digital etiquette awareness.
June 11 2014