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Business and Social Etiquette Expert: Syndi Seid
Cell phone use in public
Q: I recently went to dinner with a group of friends where one of them kept taking cell phone calls — even during the meal! I told my friend it was rude to use a cell phone in a restaurant, but my friend wasn't aware it was offensive and inappropriate. What is the correct cell phone etiquette in public?
A: You were right to think this person's behavior inappropriate. Whenever in public, a cell phone should be placed on the no–ring and/or vibrate mode. If you choose to take a call, you must leave the room or area. If on the street or bus, you should be sure to speak in as low a voice as possible, so as not to disturb others.
However, let's say you forget to turn your cell phone off and the phone rings. Either immediately turn it off and let it go into voicemail, or, if you need to take the call, first press the TALK button to stop it from ringing. Then say, "One moment please." Do not say, "Hello." The caller has no way of knowing where you are and naturally will start talking, which causes more noise in the room. When you get completely outside the room or area, in an appropriate hallway or empty room, begin the conversation by saying, "Thank you for holding. I wasn't in an area I could talk. I'm fine now."
A call should never be taken in front of others in a restaurant, theatre, or meeting. Leave the room or area before taking the call. It is rude and inappropriate to disturb others with your cell phone calls.
However, let's say you forget to turn your cell phone off and the phone rings. Either immediately turn it off and let it go into voicemail, or, if you need to take the call, first press the TALK button to stop it from ringing. Then say, "One moment please." Do not say, "Hello." The caller has no way of knowing where you are and naturally will start talking, which causes more noise in the room. When you get completely outside the room or area, in an appropriate hallway or empty room, begin the conversation by saying, "Thank you for holding. I wasn't in an area I could talk. I'm fine now."
A call should never be taken in front of others in a restaurant, theatre, or meeting. Leave the room or area before taking the call. It is rude and inappropriate to disturb others with your cell phone calls.
Some issues discussed in the expert forum are complex and continually changing.We recommend you consult a professional advisor about your specific circumstances, needs, and applicable laws. More details.
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