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Cell Phone Basics for New Users
Whether you got it for work, for safety, or for unexpected traffic delays, the cell phone is the most talked-on and talked-about digital device there is. Now that you've got one, the question is, what do you need to know about it?
Earlier this year, Compaq Computer unveiled a mobile telephone the size of a credit card that can be used to send E-mail and faxes from laptop computers without a cellular or regular phone line. For about $600, users basically have a wireless connection to the Internet, and can make voice calls, using a headset and a display on the PC's screen. The technology is already widely used in Europe, and coming within the next 3-5 years to restaurants and theaters near you! If work can be done in literally any location where a human can be, maybe it's time for some guidelines for ``nice phoning".
According to research at the University of Toronto, drivers talking on a cellular phone are four times more likely to have a car accident or die from one than nonphoning drivers (even when they use hands-free car phoning kits). But for most people who commute, cellular phones simply present a novel way to embarrass yourself to death. Consider these tips for wise cell phoning the next time you whip yours out of your briefcase or purse:
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Do expect your bill to be larger than what you expected. It simply will be. Remember you get charged even if someone calls you!
Do be selective about who gets the number. Each time it rings, think dollar signs with wings.
Do be aware of the cultural environment before pulling out the phone to make a call in a public place. Some people consider it rude or pretentious.
Do clean your phone! Women will probably find it wise to purchase a cell phone with a fold-up mouthpiece to cover the keys if they carry it in their purse. Use a little household cleaner like 409 on a cotton swab to clean the keys and the ear piece regularly, especially if you loan your phone to others.
Don't drive and talk. If a call is urgent, pull over to the side in a safe place and give it your full attention. It may save a life.
Don't call from restrooms. If the building where you are is noisy, go outside to make your call. Not only will people overhear your call in a restroom, but there are background noises that could prove embarrassing. Try the hall where the pay phone is.
Don't shout. The mouthpieces of cell phones are highly sensitive, even if they seem oddly positioned. Resist the temptation to shout over the noise level.
Do ask before you make or take a call in front of someone. If you do use your phone and someone then asks to borrow it for a call, it's rude to say no. If you don't want anyone using your cell phone, avoid using it in front of others.
If you absolutely must take a call during lunch or dinner or a meeting, advise the group from the beginning that you may be interrupted for an urgent call. Keep the call short...2 minutes or less...or else leave the room.
When in a public place like a restaurant, turn the phone off. If you absolutely must have it on for an urgent call, set the volume as low as possible and answer as quickly as you can. Leave cell phones turned off during all live theater performances. If you must make or take a call at a certain time, excuse yourself before the phone rings and wait in the lobby.
Want to share other tips or express an opinion? Drop me a note!
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Copyright 1998 by Kaye Vivian (kvivian@cloud9.net). All rights reserved.
Permission to reprint is greanted as long as this copyright notice remains in tact and the article is not changed.
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