As of 2008, approximately four out of five Americans own a cellular phone, according to IT Facts. Some people use their cell phones only when they are out of the house, and others use them in lieu of a landline in their homes. Although most people have cell phones, they do not know proper cell phone etiquette. The golden rule for cell phone usage is to be considerate of others.
Be Discreet
Most people have had the experience of overhearing a conversation taking place on a cell phone that should have been kept private. Be mindful of what you are speaking about and who is around. For example, the grocery store is not the place to discuss your current health problems with your mother on your telephone. A busy restaurant is not the appropriate venue for loudly replaying the fight that you had with your spouse to your best friend. Keep your public chitchat G-rated, because you never know who is listening.
Remember the One You're With
Although it is fine to answer your cell phone if you think the call will be important, excuse yourself first, keep it brief and do not continue to chat unless it is a true emergency. Refrain from receiving or answering text messages unless they are very important when you are with others. The person you are with will thank you for paying most of your attention to him and not to the person on the other end of your cell phone. This is important to remember when you are with friends and family, when you are in a fast food restaurant's drive through, in a meeting with your child's teacher or paying the clerk at a store.
Keep the Volume Down
Remember that you don't need to shout to be heard on your cell phone. If you are in a noisy area, it is better to exit and go to a quieter area than to yell over the crowd. Similarly, turn down the ringer on your phone so that it does not disturb others in public places. Put your phone on vibrate if you are going to be in a church, doctor's office waiting room or other place that hearing a ringing telephone would be distracting. Make sure that your ringtone is non-offensive if you do not have your phone on a silent mode.
Safety First
It is against the law in some states to talk on your cell phone while driving. Even if it is not unlawful in your state, remember that dialing and answering while driving puts you and others on the road at risk. Texting while driving is irresponsible at best and deadly at worst. If you need to send a text, pull over on the side of the road first.
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