tips on mobile phone etiquette

Pay attention to the road
We have growing evidence that cell phones may distract drivers and cause risks for themselves and other drivers.

The cell savvy user never uses a mobile phone while driving unless it is “hands free.” Not only are both hands free to shift and steer, there seems to be a very significant difference in the degree of attention deficit when using an ear phone. The ear phone makes it much easier to focus on driving. The cell savvy user is also careful to limit conversations in cars to traffic areas and conditions requiring low amounts of decision-making.
Speak softly
The cell savvy user is careful to speak in hushed tones, knowing that a mobile phone has a sensitive microphone capable of picking up a soft voice.
The cell savvy user also sets the ring tone at a low level with a tune that is soft, gentle and not annoying. The more crowded the situation, the quieter and softer the volume of voice and ring.
Keep your distance
Each person is surrounded by a personal space. This space provides feelings of safety and calm, especially in crowded places.
When strangers come into our personal space, it can make us feel uncomfortable. The smart cell phone user respects the personal space of other people and tries to speak in places 10-20 feet or more away from the closest person.
Keep business private
Many personal and business conversations contain information that should remain confidential or private. Before using a mobile phone in a public location to discuss private business or issues, the cell savvy user makes sure that there will be enough distance to keep the content private. Some stories, some issues and some conflicts should be saved for times and locations that will allow for confidentiality.
Keep a civil and pleasant tone
The cell savvy user knows that others might overhear a conversation, so they are careful to maintain a public voice that will not disturb others. At the same time, the cell savvy user knows that certain types of conversations may require or inspire some tough talk or emotional tones. They reserve these conversations for more private settings.
Pick your spot
Some locations are better for conversations than others. They offer more privacy and less noise. By keeping the mobile phone turned off much of the time, the smart cell phone user is able to handle incoming calls under good conditions rather than struggling against interference of various kinds such as flight announcements in the hallways of an airport.
The cell savvy user learns which spots will offer the best signal and the best conditions. Rather than hold an important business discussion or negotiation under poor conditions, the cell savvy user waits for good conditions in order to make the best impression and provide a professional communication experience.