In today’s world the cell phone has become an essential tool as it allows us to carry our office with us wherever we go. There is hardly any businessperson or professional who travels without a cell phone. Technology has definitely taken over the paper file, the memo pad and the note book. Here are some quick cell phone etiquette tips:

1. Keep your cell phone on silent in public places
Always keep your cell phone on silent in public places. This shows respect for people who do not wish to know when you receive a call or text.  Having your cell phone on loud, can be very distracting to others in a public place. There are also certain  places that require you to turn your cell phone off. As a rule of thumb turn your cell phone off or keep on silent in : a church, a business meeting, a movie theatre, at a lecture, the library or even when visiting someone’s home.

2. Avoid checking your phone at networking events
As tempting as it may be to check your most recent email or text, checking your phone at networking events is unacceptable. The purpose of a networking event is to meet potential clients and expand your network; constantly checking your cell phone can make you seem rude and disinterested. You don’t want to risk phubbing (phone snubbing) a new contact or potential client.

3. Avoid texting clients
Although texting is a quick and easy way of sending a message it should not be used with clients. If you must text a client to let him/her know you are running late for example, make sure you use full words and sentences. You should also be mindful of your spelling and grammar. Texting is an informal form of communication and using it with a client may make you seem unprofessional depending on the person you are dealing with.

4. Choose an appropriate ring tone
Nothing is more unprofessional than an annoying ring tone! It’s important to be selective and conservative when choosing a ring tone for your cell phone. Although there are many sounds to choose from ranging from the most popular songs to sounds of nature, choose a ring tone that is clear and can be easily heard. Keep it professional; it’s best to avoid loud and jarring sounds, songs, or sounds that include bells and whistles. A standard ring tone is more professional and less annoying to most people and meets a global standard.

The same rules apply your ring-in tone (the noise people hear when they call you). Some people opt to have callers hear a song while they wait for their call to be answered or have songs playing for call waiting, this can be very annoying and distracting. Avoid setting a ring-in tone or call waiting music if you can. Just keep it simple.

 5. Have an active voice mail on your cell phone
In business every phone call is important. This is why it’s extremely important that you have an activated voice mail so your clients/customers can leave a message. Make sure that your clients are greeted with a courteous message when they are prompted to leave a voice mail and always remember to return their call.

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