Cell Phone Courtesy: The Do's and Don'ts
To remind cell phone users to mind their mobile manners, National Cell Phone Courtesy Month kicked off July 1. With so many Americans owning a cell phone (91 percent to be exact, according to the PEW Research Center), we could all use a few pointers on cell phone etiquette.
Whether responding to texts during a dinner date, carrying on a conversation in a museum or art gallery, or chatting about private details in public spaces, the majority of cell phone users have most likely been guilty of one of these faux pas at some point or another. To remind cell phone users to be mindful of others, AT&T has put together a list of do’s and don’ts:
DO: Be mindful of how loudly you are talking in public.
DON’T: Have personal conversations where others can hear you. You never know who may be listening so this is in your best interest as well.
DO: Step aside or leave the room if possible when taking a call in public.
DON’T: Take calls when involved in face-to-face conversations. If you know that you are expecting an important call that you must take, let your companions know ahead of time.
DO: Put your phone on silent when in theaters, restaurants, trains, buses, doctors and dentists’ offices, museums and other enclosed public spaces. Think of downloading a free app like the one from Cinemark. The free app enables users to switch their phone onto CineMode when entering the theater, which automatically dims their screen and prompts them to set the volume to silent. In return, users receive rewards – such as money off popcorn – for keeping CineMode on for the duration of the movie.
DON’T: Text/email/check your phone while involved in face-to-face conversation. It’s just plain rude and makes the other person feel like they’re not interesting or important to you.
DO: Choose your ring tone wisely – no annoying, offensive or vulgar ringtones. If you want to personalize your ringtone or have a little fun with it, try downloading a ring tone app like 1,500 Ringtones Unlimited. For $1.99 you can choose from 1,500 unique ringtones, including music and sound effects.
DON’T: Have conversations in cramped or small spaces such as elevators, trains and waiting rooms.
Finally, when it comes to texting and driving, It Can Wait! Visit Itcanwait.com to download the free AT&T DriveMode app, which when enabled sends an automatic reply to incoming texts and emails to let the sender know you are driving and will reply when it is safe to do so. While on the site, take the time to take the pledge to never again text and drive!