Smart phones are great! They keep us in touch with family and friends, keep us connected to current events, and entertain our minds when faced with the boredom of waiting rooms.  However, they also disconnect us from common courtesy, a basic customer service mindset with each other.  

Think about that time you were in the checkout and the cashier was on her phone….while ringing up your order.  Did you feel disconnected? Did you feel unappreciated? A recent study on the topic of mobile etiquette showed that 88% of respondents believe that people rarely take others into consideration when using their mobile devices in public. Your phone doesn’t have to be on all the time and you don’t always have to answer.  

Use the following when dealing with your smart phone and the public:     

• During a conversation, avoid being on your phone for any reason, whether texting, answering a call, or even just checking it.  Switch it to silent so you aren’t interrupted.
• Watch your language, especially when others can overhear you.
• Speak softly.
• Avoid talking about personal or confidential topics in a public place.
• If it must be on and it could bother others, use the “silent” mode and move away to talk.
• Don’t make calls in a library, store or church.
• Don’t use your phone AT ALL in a theater.  That “phone glow” is brighter than you think.
• Don’t talk on your phone from your table in a restaurant. Move outside.
• Don’t talk on the phone when dealing with a cashier.  It’s just rude.
• Silence your phone if you are set up with Multiple Notification Alerts. The notification sounds are distracting during a conversation.
• Don’t use speaker mode in public. No one wants to hear both sides of your conversation.
• If you are in a meeting or class, don’t look down to check your phone.  You’re not fooling anyone.
• Careful with your ringtones. What may seem appropriate to you may not be to others.
• NEVER drive and use your phone at the same time.

Any behavior can become habitual and start to escape your notice. Auto-responses, such as answering your smart phone for a call, text, or update, are hard to curb. Be aware of your situation and keep your etiquette radar fine-tuned. You will find that conversations are more enjoyable and effective when you immerse yourself in them.    

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