How’s Your Phone Etiquette? Here’s How to Avoid ‘Phone-Pas’

Are people getting ruder?

This article is presented in partnership with Circles Life.

We know what you’re thinking – etiquette’s boring and we sound like your Mum. But, when everyone constantly has a phone in their hands, phone etiquette is pretty important thing to be thinking about.

So, we’ve partnered up with Circles Life to share their phone etiquette guide.

Here’s your snapshot of the guide, but for the full details you can download the full guide for free here.

At work.

Avoid taking personal phone calls during meetings and instead, keep your phone in your pocket or face down on the desk on silent.

If you do have to take a call or respond to a text - excuse yourself and leave the room.

On the toilet.

Maybe reconsider answering calls while in a public bathroom. If you do need to text or send an email while on the toilet, consider switching your phone to silent.

It’s also important to wipe down your phone the moment you wash your hands to avoid spreading bacteria.

Out with friends.

Time is precious and good friends are few and far between.

How much attention you give them is a reflection of how valuable they are to you. It’s important to value your friends in front of you, over the ones on your phone.

When a friend sends a message, the least you can do is respond in a timely manner.

The general time frame for direct questions or urgent matters is ‘same day’ for texts, WhatsApp and Messenger.

Eating.

No one likes to hear someone chewing loudly in their ear, so avoid making or taking a phone call while eating.

If out with friends and you want to post a picture of the food to social media, it’s important to ask others before taking a photo.

It might go without saying, but if you’re on a date, avoid this behaviour entirely. 

Screening calls.

In this digital age, we all have caller ID and can easily dodge unwanted calls.

But if you’re constantly screening calls from family and friends, they might stop calling you for good. It might be a better idea to just answer and get it over with.

If you’re really in a bind, you can say something like “Hey, I’m swamped right now, can I call you back later?”

Out and about.

Avoid gazing at your phone screen while walking, keep it in your bag or pocket. If you do need to text on-the-go, try using Voice to Text or stop briefly to send your message and keep moving. For commuters, it’s important to show respect when taking public transport. If your phone rings, answer it quickly and quietly. Avoid talking on the phone in a quiet carriage on a train.

Engaging with retail staff.

If you’re on the phone while ordering a coffee or asking for help at a store, you’re doing it wrong. Put the phone down and give the staff member your full attention. If it’s a must-take call or text, step aside and finish before coming back to your transaction.

Be sure to check out the full etiquette guide above, and to check out Circles Life's top-tier student mobile deals.