Cell Phone Etiquette

The age of “always connected” has made us lose all common sense, hasn’t it? This very curious email came to me through a contact, asking for my thoughts ...

And this

The age of “always connected” has made us lose all common sense, hasn’t it?  Things that we would otherwise have only talked about in the privacy of our homes or offices are now talked about and typed about very publicly. However, “business” still carries a modicum of confidentiality and as a finance or other executive, business etiquette should apply.

-- Talking about a business deal at lunch with a colleague is typically done in hushed tones with heads leaning forward to create an environment of confidentiality. Deals done on cell phones are usually discussed at double volume for the entire restaurant to hear. Regardless of what public place you find yourself, my suggestion ... let the call go through to voice mail and return it in a private setting. Or, if you think the call is that important, step outside or find an isolated, quiet place to converse. Have you considered what confidential information you might be revealing by talking so publicly?

-- In the restroom. Seriously? I shouldn’t even have to comment but since I was asked, I will. Do you really need to have a business conversation while doing your personal business? How do you think it is perceived on the other end to hear the toilet flushing (or worse) or the water running or the hand dryer blowing? Do you want that image attached to your brand. My suggestion, let the call go through to voice mail and call them back from a quiet, private environment.

-- And finally, please don’t ever call in sick, ask for a raise, or resign through texting.