People can get carried away using their mobile phone. Loud ring tones, arguments in public and continuous text messaging can be an imposition on others.
Choosing a Ring Tone
It can be tempting, and funny, to have an outrageous ring tone. For a little while other people might be amused by the sudden playing of the Beetles, the crow of a rooster, or whatever other ring tone has been chosen, however, eventually the novelty wears of and becomes annoying.
it is important to remember that unless the mobile phone is only used in private, other people will be exposed to the ringing of the phone. A ring tone should be adjusted to suit the situation. If taking a mobile into a restaurant it is appropriate to turn the phone onto silent or even off, if possible.
Using a Mobile Phone in Public Places
Sometimes it cannot be avoided that the phone has to be left on in a social setting. However, if possible this should be avoided.
Most people do not want to become part of a private conversation or a business one for that matter. It can be embarrassing for other people to have to listen to a private argument that may be ensuing on the mobile on a crowded train, in the morning on the way to work.
If going to the movies, a concert or the theater the phone should be switched off. There may be exceptional circumstances that mean the phone needs to be left on, and in that case it should be turned to silent.
A Mobile Should not be Used for Bullying
Bullying and intimidation with a mobile is not acceptable behavior. Most countries have laws against using a telephone device for means of harassment. Severe penalties are in place to avoid this type of behavior.
It also pays be to be cautious about text messaging. Text messages can be retrieved by telephone companies and used in evidence in court proceedings if need be.
Using a Mobile to Take Photos
Some people do not like to be photographed. When using the camera on a mobile care should be taken so as not to offend someone or get into trouble for taking photos without the approval of that person or those persons.
When to Turn a Mobile Off
Public places like hospitals have strict rules about turning mobile phones off. Similarly there are strict rules about leaving the mobile off on a plane, as it interferes with navigation equipment.
Court rooms also enforce a phone off policy. There are some Judges or Magistrates that will confiscate a mobile till the end of the day if it rings during court time in their court.
Good manners are important in all aspect of life. Using a mobile phone thoughtfully will ensure a harmonious relationship with fellow individuals.
To ensure good phone etiquette takes a little bit of thought about others. It is not difficult to be courteous to others when using the phone.
Adjusting the ring tone to suit the situation, turning it off when appropriate and ensuring conversations on the mobile are limited in social settings will ensure good phone etiquette.
Tanya Klein - I have been writing now for a number of years. One of my biggest achievements has been getting published in Germany - I wrote a chapter ...
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