Know when to turn it completely off. Meetings, Churches, Doctor’s Office. Any enclosed public places.
The person face to face with you has top priority. Never interrupt a conversation to answer your phone. Let your phone’s technology (Voice Mail) do the work.
Get permission before snapping pictures. Not everyone wants their picture taken and what you may find funny, amusing or memorable may be embarrassing to others.
PDA”s (Hand held devices)
Don’t engage in email during meetings, conversations, dinner, etc. You remove yourself from the conversation and it just looks rude.
Let the party you’re with know you’re going to use it before you do. A simple, “I’m going to take this information down while we talk, is that alright?” is the most polite way to engage in using your device.
Be prepared and polite for questions about your device from strangers. Technology is advancing rapidly and therefore there is more interest. People may be considering taking the leap to purchase a PDA or they may want to up grade. Your using one so your opinion counts. Don‘t get all in a huff if someone inquires, just answer politely.
MP3 Players
Take both ear buds out when conversing with others. You’ll cause the other party to feel as if they’re being rushed through the conversation if you leave one in.
Keep the volume to a reasonable level. You chose to download songs for “Personal” enjoyment not to put on an unwanted concert.
Obey your workplace and classroom rules for usage.
Laptop Computers
Opt for plain ol’ note taking during meetings so that you don’t offend. Your open laptop creates a barrier between you and your coworkers and they’ll be distracted wondering if you are surfing the net, in a chat room or worse, playing a game.
