Where in the world has proper etiquette gone to? Since I can go on for days about proper etiquette, I would first like to start with phone etiquette.
It’s the one thing we do everyday other than brush our teeth, shower and eat is, talk on the phone.
What is phone etiquette in general?
- Phone calls should not be made before 7:00am or after 9:30pm. Unless previously discussed with the other person.
- Answer the phone with a simple “hello” Try to stay away from “Yes” or “This is (your name)”.
- Return a phone call within 24 hours. Unless you are away from home.
- I understand it’s adorable for parents to have their two year old answer the phone. But coming from the other end it can be slight frustrating especially if you are in a hurry.
- Tone down the background noise. If you get a call and there is a lot of background noise, either leave the area or let the call go to voice mail.
- Never answer the phone at dinner. Excuse your self from the table, walk away and proceed to take the call.
- Don’t interrupt. Unless you have a friend who never stops talking.
- Never talk in libraries, museums, theaters, enclosed public areas like hospitals or buses.
- Try not to multi-task while on the phone. Especially while you watch television. It’s not very inviting for the caller on the other end.
- If you are checking out in any shopping area or at the bank conducting business with a teller, hang up the phone. You are not only being rude to the caller but the person you are in front of.
- If you say you will call someone back, call them back!
- If you call someone tell them your name right away. Don’t have them guess.
- If you receive another call while on the phone, let the call go to voice mail or hang up with the current caller. Don’t leave people on hold, you usually will forget about them!
- Lower your voice when talking in public.
- Avoid texting when you are having a face-to-face conversation. Ask them first if you can check your phone, excuse yourself or simply check your phone after the conversation is over.
- Use a 10 feet talking proximity when other people are around you.
A couple extra tips to keep in mind.
- Always take calls from people that pay the bills.
- Choose your ring tones wisely.
- Please and thank you are too magic words which work over text as well.
- Say bye before you hang up the phone.
- Phones are now tape recorders. Choose your words wisely.
I know for some of you this list will be hard commitment. Start with 5 on the list and once you mastered those add on more as you go along. You will see a huge difference in the amount of respect and focus this will bring. xxx <3 A&L