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Business and Social Etiquette Expert: Syndi Seid
Should a host talk on the phone when guests are over?
Q: While entertaining a guest, how long should the host spend talking on the telephone when a friend calls?
A: As the host, s/he should not answer the telephone whatsoever and should let voicemail take all calls for the evening. Afterall, who's more important — a telephone call or the guests you have invited to spend an evening with you?
If the host must take calls, it should be kept brief — telling the caller they are entertaining for the evening and if they can return the call the next day. In other words, no, it is not appropriate for either a guest or host to talk on the telephone for any length of time.
Whenever I have guests over, I never answer the telephone. I let it go into voicemail and allow the caller to assume I am out for the evening. In essence, I am out — entertaining my guests.
If the host must take calls, it should be kept brief — telling the caller they are entertaining for the evening and if they can return the call the next day. In other words, no, it is not appropriate for either a guest or host to talk on the telephone for any length of time.
Whenever I have guests over, I never answer the telephone. I let it go into voicemail and allow the caller to assume I am out for the evening. In essence, I am out — entertaining my guests.
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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