Personal communication devices.

Cell Phones: Part of Daily Life

Cell phones are everywhere these days—barely anyone is without one. For many people, especially younger people or those who don't have landline telephones, mobile phones are their only link to the outside world. They're actually very convenient, allowing us to be contactable at all times and to lend a helping hand in times of crisis.

What was once a voice call phone is now much more. Smartphones of today enable us to browse the internet, send text and email, access apps, play games, listen to audio, watch video, read books, take photos and videos, and even use work documents—all from one device.

The Real Problem Isn't the Phone. It's How We Use It

The annoyance that the public feels towards cell phones is usually a result of the way they're used mindlessly. As a result, public places like restaurants and theaters began posting signs: No cell phones. Soon, everyone just agreed on good manners.

The answer is simple: use your phone responsibly and respectfully. Don't let your phone control you—use that handy "off" button when needed.

Basic Cell Phone Etiquette

Always switch off your phone in places that are quiet like churches, theaters, restaurants, and meetings or presentations.

Put it on silent or vibrate mode if you must be reachable—but don't ring it loudly on a hard surface.

Move off to take calls privately and speak softly.

Keep your conversations brief, especially in public.

Don't discuss sensitive or private stuff in public where others may be likely to eavesdrop. 

Mind Your Location: "Take-Care Zones"

On the street: Don't shout into your phone. Pay attention to what's going on around you—especially when walking through a crowded area or crossing the street.

In stores: Don't create a logjam at checkout lines because you are on the phone. Concentrate on the cashier entirely.

In restaurants: Even if phones aren't banned, turn yours off. If you must take the call, step outside.

In cars: It's dangerous and generally illegal to use a phone while driving. Pull over and exit traffic if you need to make a call. Sounds in the car will make you speak louder, disturbing others on the line.

On planes: When instructed to turn off devices, do so promptly. Make calls brief as a landing status update and save more extended calls for when you're in a different area.

On public transportation: Make brief and soft calls. Do not have personal conversations. Some trains even have quiet cars with no phones permitted.

When It's Acceptable to Use Your Phone in Public

Everyone is okay with a quick and soft call—such as double-checking your grocery list, checking in at the airport, or giving a quick update upon arrival. Just watch your volume and surroundings.

Ring Tones: Keep It Classy

Ringtones can be made personal, but do so wisely. Disturbing or shrill tones will irritate others, especially at workplaces. Furthermore, vexing repetitive ringtones will annoy people readily.

Cameras: Respect Others' Privacy

Phone cameras are great for fun and normal use, like family pictures or recording something to show someone in a store. Taking pictures or recordings of someone to embarrass them, or taking pictures or videos in intimate areas like bathrooms or locker rooms, is completely off base.

Texting: Fast and Convenient, but Use with Caution

Text messaging is great for quick and casual communication, but it’s not the right method for serious or emotional news. Don’t rely solely on texts—return phone calls when needed. Also:

Don’t assume everyone has unlimited texting.

Keep texts short—if it’s more than a few lines, call instead.

Don’t overwhelm someone with constant messages.

Double-check you’re texting the right person.

Identify yourself in a first-time message.

Reply when possible, even if briefly.

Do not text in dark, isolated places like at the theater.

Never text sensitive or confidential information.

Should You Respond to Every Text?

If you'd respond in person, then respond by text. Occasionally, a brief "Thanks" (or "TNX") is enough to conclude the conversation with class and avoid misunderstandings, especially with those who need quick turnaround.

Text Speak (Abbreviations)

Even before full keyboards became available on phones, folks clipped short statements like:

LOL – Laugh out loud

BRB – Be right back

IDK – I don't know

.and so on. Just make sure your recipient knows the shorthand.

Smartphones & Other Mobile Devices

As mobile technology changes, the rules of good behavior do not: be respectful of other people. Be especially mindful of work information—if your phone gets lost or hacked, that information could be compromised.

Some workplaces allow devices during meetings; others don’t. If unsure, ask beforehand. Even when allowed, silence your device and stay focused.

Top 4 Cell Phone Don’ts (Never-Evers)

Letting your phone ring in quiet places like movies, concerts, or places of worship.

Ignoring people you’re with by checking your phone mid-conversation.

Making call after call in public areas.

Using offensive language on calls where others can hear.

How to Handle Rude Phone Use Politely

If a person is disrupting things (e.g., talking on the phone while watching a film), don't call them on it directly—things might get ugly. Tactfully ask an usher or worker to step in instead.

Pagers & Bluetooth Devices

If you carry a pager, silence beep noises when you're with others and step away to answer. With Bluetooth headsets, don't leave them turned on when out with other people—it's considerate to take them off and engage in conversation with your companions.

MP3 Devices & Music Players

Turn volume down low—if others can hear it, it is too loud.

Remove earbuds when talking to someone.

Check your company policy before using one at work.