Top 10 Golden Rules For Correct Cell Phone Etiquette

Just about everyone these days, and that includes children, owns a cell phone. True, the cell phone is a necessity, considering that it is much cheaper to use than a landline, also you are able to make or take any call, 24x7. Take a short walk and you will see almost every second person talking on a cell phone, either while driving, walking the dog, taking kids to school, crossing the road (yes, that's dangerous too). Walk into a business center, an office, a college, or a restaurant, yes, you will see or hear someone talking loudly on a cell phone. Those with hands free appear to be talking and smiling to themselves.

Multi-tasking has become the norm and it is not surprising to see your maid washing vessels even as she deftly props up her cell phone between neck and shoulder while constantly engaged in some chatter. It is not at all uncommon to see skilled workers working at heights precariously doing the balancing act while taking calls from their cell.

While at the doctor's consulting chambers, engaged in bank transactions, or in the ICU of large hospitals, some people do not switch off their cell phones though, there is a sign put up telling you to. The pastor of a church begins his sermon only after telling you to switch off your cell phone. Rather sad, isn't it, when you hear a phone ring in the middle of a memorial service or a funeral service, or a wedding?

So, what category of cell phone user do you belong ? One that never switches off his cell phone or puts it on silent ? One that takes each and every call ? One that insists on speaking loudly while answering a call ? One that uses a loud ringtone ? One who is rude to those around, by ignoring them ? Yes, the one that called you on the cell gets your attention ! Even in the middle of a meeting ? Do you refuse to make a choice on what calls to receive and what to let go to your voicebox ?

1. A careful choice must be made while choosing a ring tone. One that is not too vulgar, jarring, annoying, and one that does not hurt other's sentiments. For, you do not know when it will ring and where you will be at any point of time, and you should save yourself some embarrassment.
2. Do not be rude. While on the phone, it is often noticed that you tend to be engaged in a conversation,and ignore those around you.
3. Lower your voice while talking. Do not be loud, even if it is a heated argument on the phone. Or better still, choose to walk to a quiet corner or another room if you have to continue. It is recommended that you maintain at least 10 feet between you and the next person while on a cell phone.
4. While in public or when others can hear you, avoid personal topics while talking on the cell phone.
5. Be mindful of other road users while you drive. That means no speaking on the cell phone while driving. Maximum accidents are caused while engaged in speaking while driving.
6. During a meeting with another person, strictly avoid taking calls. If you genuinely need to, excuse yourself from the person and keep it brief. Putting your cell phone's ringer on silent mode is recommended.
7. Switch off your mobile before entering a place of worship, weddings, funerals, banks, hospitals, theaters, etc., so as to not disturb yourself or the others in your presence.
8. Avoid texting while engaged in a conversation with anyone. Even while in a restaurant or a theater with someone. That would be classified as extreme rudeness.
9. In a dark theater, never light up your cell phone screen. You will be disturbing everyone.
10. Do not check your SMS's when talking to someone. Neither is it wise to look up anything on your cell phone, including social media such as facebook and twitter while engaged in a conversation face to face.

It follows that every cell phone user must decide whether a call should take priority over the situation at hand. Having a cell phone is handy provided you follow these golden rules.