CELL PHONE ETIQUETTE

In meetings, the use of technology or cell phones may be needed, but otherwise cell phone usage should be kept at a minimum and we should prioritize face-to-face interactions. 

Be fully engaged when in meetings! In this day and age, it is difficult to put down the phone because people are addicted and it's used to cope; but we tend to lose focus. Leave the phone off or at the desk to prevent using it excessively. Remember why you’re at the meeting. You are valuable at that moment in that interaction. It will be perceived that you are distracted, rude, and do not fully contribute to the team if you are constantly checking your phone.

A study of over 500 professionals by the USC Marshall School of Business shows that 76% (3 out of 4 people) said checking texts or emails is unacceptable behavior in business meetings. Over 30% still found it to be rarely/never appropriate during informal/offsite lunch meetings. 20% answered that even having the phone out on the table is just a bad move.

You may be paying attention and not have the intention of being disrespectful but what you present that others perceive you by is what's important.  People want you ALL IN. How would you feel in a group setting if you were speaking and someone pulled out a phone while speaking with you?​ This goes further than groups or private meetings.  This can apply to personal conversations with friends or co-workers. You never want to make someone feel uncomfortable or unimportant. Please be mindful of appropriate times and places to use your cell phones.