July is National Cellphone Courtesy Month (hint, hint)

July 8, 2009 by blackgirlgrown
Filed under etiquette, technology

blackgirlgrown has previously written on the importance of having at least some sense of social decorum when using a cellphone or PDA. For good or bad, cellphones have become a part of our daily lives. Understandably, cell phones provide added comfort and reassurance to parents so that they can reach their children. It also provides a level of security for us and our loved ones.

HOWEVER, the consistent disrespect given to silence, quiet, and serenity is criminal. The captive public is assaulted daily by one-sided overly loud irrelevant conversations, “nails on chalkboard” ring tones, varied glowing devices in movie theaters alerting pre-teens to awaiting text messages, and in general a complete disregard for manners.

With this we recognize July as National Cellphone Courtesy Month. Created in 2002 by Jacqueline Whitmore’s The Protocol Post, the month is an attempt to bring back some semblance of social decorum in our tech-savvy world.

Before forwarding this on as a courtesy to the guilty (friends and family), don’t forget to first take a look in the mirror and take note yourself!

A few of our favorite tips from The Protocol Post:

Keep it private. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid discussing private or confidential information in public. You never know who may be in hearing range.

Learn to vibe. Use your wireless phone’s silent or vibration settings in public places such as business meetings, religious services, schools, restaurants, theaters or sporting events so that you do not disrupt your surroundings.

Avoid “cell yell.” Remember to use your regular conversational tone when speaking on your wireless phone. People tend to speak more loudly than normal and often don’t recognize how distracting they can be to others.

Follow the rules. Some places, such as hospitals or airplanes, restrict or prohibit the use of mobile phones, so adhere to posted signs and instructions. Some jurisdictions may also restrict mobile phone use in public places.