Cell phone etiquette is an art, not a science.
As the benefits and capabilities of cell phones continue to increase, business professionals’ dependence on them continues to grow. In addition to phone calls, cell phones are now our mini computers receiving emails, text messages and keeping us connected to all our social media networks. An infographic from OnlineCollege.org shows that 3.5 million text messages are sent per minute. Not only that, but in a fiercely competitive world, immediate responsiveness via cell phone is a must. This extreme access and subsequent trigger responsiveness, if not properly managed, can have negative business consequences.
Cell phone etiquette is an art, not a science. You never know what will offend one person but seem perfectly fine to another. Here are a few suggestions to get more out of your mobile technology while supporting your most important relationships.
Looking at Your Cell Phone While In a Business Meeting
This is a tough one for most people who attribute success to responsiveness and access. However, even for a short bit, it’s rude to look at your phone or other device while in the midst of a conversation, casual or business. The moment you pick up that phone or continue to glance at a text message infers to the other person that whatever is happening on your cell phone is more important than the conversation that is happening at the moment. If you must glance at your phone, wait for a break in the conversation or excuse yourself from the table and take the call, then apologize and encourage the other party to continue.
Don’t Leave Your Cell Phone Out
Remember the old saying, “Out of sight, out of mind?” It’s true, while in a meeting try to keep your phone out of sight. If you don’t have your phone out on the table right in front of you, you’re more likely not to pick it up or stare at it during a meeting. If you need to keep your phone out for an important call, let your colleagues know ahead of time. It’s respectful and lets everyone know that you may have to take a call ahead of time.
In some offices, it’s common practice to step into a conference room and put cell phones on the table. If that’s the case, it’s fine to reciprocate, but make sure you’re respectful if you do need to take a call.
Taking Personal Calls While at Work
If you’re taking a personal call at work that you know will last more than a minute and you don’t have your own office, take the time to respect your fellow co-workers and excuse yourself. When you answer the call, ask the person on the other end to hold for a minute while you walk away. Don’t just keep talking while walking away if you can help it.
This is not only respectful to your fellow co-workers but it will also give you more privacy. If you walk away those nosy co-workers won’t have a chance to learn more about you to gossip about at the water cooler later on.
Leaving Cell Phone Sounds On
A good rule of thumb is to turn your phone on silent whenever walking into a meeting. Your cell phone ringing, email alerts or text notifications going off is not just a nuisance, but it’s an interruption to the business meeting your suppose to have your full attention on. Setting your phone on silent will keep the meeting flowing smoothly.
If you follow a few of these steps and exercise a little extra sensitivity when around others you’ll show how much you personally value those around you. It will not only help gain their respect but may make you look a like a better employee.
Special Offer: Three Girls Media & Marketing Inc. is a public relations and social media management agency with teams in Silicon Valley and the Seattle area. We love working with small and emerging companies across the nation to raise their brand awareness and name recognition. We offer a complimentary 30-minute phone consultation with our CEO and can answer your questions and discuss your specific marketing needs. Contact us today to arrange yours!
Photo Credit: Tobyotter