Rules of Engagement for Smartphone Use

It happens to everyone. You’re at a restaurant and the guy at the table next to yours is on his smartphone, and he’s chatting loudly. Pretty soon, you’ve heard all about his promotion at work, his mother-in-law’s annoying habits, and how much he paid for his new car. Worse, maybe you are that guy! I think it’s safe to say that we have all been on both sides of a smartphone faux pas. Most everyone has committed a smartphone sin or two, and I am sure we have all been on the receiving end of smartphones rudeness. The constant connectedness that smartphones provide is both a benefit and a curse. People who wouldn’t dream of being rude under normal circumstances sometimes seem to forget all rules of etiquette when their smartphone rings.

The best way to think about following rules of smartphone etiquette is to remember that etiquette is all about being considerate and making others feel good. We want those who are with us in person to feel valued by giving them our full attention. If your smartphone rings, try not to answer it unless it is absolutely necessary. It’s best to silence your smartphone ringer and let the call go to voicemail. If you feel like you must answer the call, apologize to the other person, and/or ask permission to take the call. For example, “I’m sorry. Do you mind if I take this?” Then step outside or find a more private location to take the call. Of course, keep the call as brief as possible. Likewise, follow the same procedure when considering sending or reading a text. There is nothing worse than trying to spend time with someone while he or she is continually texting someone else on a smartphone.

Don’t let your smartphone become an annoyance to those around you in public places. Avoid obnoxious or offensive ring tones and set the volume at a reasonable level. Also, when you take a phone call in a public place, try to talk softly. It’s natural for most people to speak louder than normal on a smartphone, but this broadcasts your private conversation to everyone else. Speak softer, or find a more private place to talk. In addition, you should always silence your smartphone when you are in places such as theaters and libraries, and be careful not to light up the screen when you are in a dark movie theater.

The rules of smartphone etiquette are not difficult to follow; they just require that we be more considerate of others. A little consideration can go a long way.