There is no denying that technology has changed the world for the better. The
fact of the matter is that without cell phones things would not be the same. Of
course, this holds true with many other types of technology as well. But
technology is not always a good thing. There are many pitfalls that can go along
with cell phone use as well. The good thing is that if you are aware of these
issues you can do whatever it takes to avoid them. And this is exactly what a
lot of companies are doing. More and more of them are giving courses on proper
cell phone etiquette and things of the like.

Here are 10 things to keep in mind when using your cell phone. If you follow
these 10 rules you will be known as a polite cell phone user, and people will
really appreciate this.

1. Do not talk on your phone in an enclosed public place, especially a quiet
area like a library.
2. Do not speak on your cell phone while on an elevator with other passengers.
3. If you must use your phone around others make sure that you keep the volume
of your voice to a conversational level.
4. Do not use a ring tone that is likely to annoy others. Although these can be
playful, in a business environment they are far from professional.
5. When using speakerphone in a car, politely let person on the other end know
who else might be listening. Better yet, offer to call them back when you get to
the office.
6. Turn your cell phone off when you are in a meeting. There is nothing worse
than a cell phone going off during a meeting.
7. Do not answer your cell phone while you are out to dinner or lunch. This
holds true if you are on a date, with colleagues, etc.
8. This may seem strange, but do not take pictures with your cell phone of
people who you do not know!
9. Your cell phone is supposed to supplement your business communication. In
other words, do not use your cellular phone just because you have one.
10. Do not multi task by making calls on your cell phone while you are at the
bank, the mall, or anywhere else where you may have to communicate with others.

As you can see, common courtesy is important to employ when using the most
common of handheld devices, the cell phone. While cell phones can go a long way
in helping you day in and day out, polite and respectful usage will go a long
way in making you look good. Keep the above 10 tips in mind, and do everyone
else a favor pass them on!

Stuart Frankel often writes about cell
phones and the wireless industry focusing on Cingular and T-Mobile Cell
phones and plans.