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You're the one using the phone, not someone else -

It's not other people's responsibility to cope with your cell phone use. It is, however, your responsibility to use your phone inoffensively. 

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You're the one using the phone, not someone else -

That is to say, it's not about what you expect others to tolerate, but rather it's about what others find offensive. By ignoring this principle, you cross the line of being rude. 

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Put your phone away when you're having a meal -

This phone etiquette rule may seem pretty obvious, but being courteous to your companions is important, especially when you're supposed to be socializing over a meal. 

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Put your phone away when you're having a meal -

If you're anticipating an important call, let the person you're with know beforehand. And no matter what, don't hold a phone conversation at the table. Make sure you step away and come back shortly. 

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Avoid using a phone on public transportation -

People are often stressed, rushing, or exhausted on public transport. The last thing they want is to listen to a random phone call right by their ear. 

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Avoid using a phone on public transportation -

Be courteous when you are on the go, and above all be smart about your smartphone use. 

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Turn off your phone -

There are just certain places where cell phones should be and often are off-limits. Turn it off when you're at the cinema or  theater, as well as in a church or temple. 

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Turn off your phone -

And remember, having your phone on vibrate is equally disturbing, as is the light from your phone's screen.

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End phone conversations when paying for purchases -

Just because you don't know the cashier, doesn’t mean you can keep chatting away while they’re helping you. 

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End phone conversations when paying for purchases -

Unless it’s an emergency, it’s rude to stay on the phone right in their face. Hang up and interact with the person in front of you. 

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Lower your voice when using your phone in public -

Not only should you avoid shouting, but you should automatically lower your voice when on the phone in public. 

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Lower your voice when using your phone in public -

Just put yourself in other people's shoes. You don't want to hear their conversations, so why would they want to hear yours?

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Never shout when talking on the phone -

Generally, you don't have to shout in the microphone to be heard on the other end. If you're in a loud environment, just call back later. 

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Never shout when talking on the phone -

In addition, shouting on the phone disrupts people around you. No one else needs to be informed of your conversations, much less your arguments. 

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Don't put your phone on speaker -

Just like people don't want to hear your end of the conversation, they surely don't want to hear the other person either.

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Don't put your phone on speaker -

Whenever you're in a public space, make sure you don't put your phone on speaker. It's rude to the person you're talking to and to everyone around you. 

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Don't be on your phone when you drive -

This is an obvious one. Whether it's texting or talking on the phone, don't do it when you drive. 

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Don't be on your phone when you drive -

Not only are you breaking laws, but you're also putting your life and the lives of others in danger. Pull over somewhere if you have to use your phone. 

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Don’t take a call in the middle of a face-to-face conversation -

The truth is, cell phones can destroy your conversations and your interpersonal skills. Try not to give the screen even a glance while you’re speaking to someone. 

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Don’t take a call in the middle of a face-to-face conversation -

Imagine how you'd feel if someone did it to you. Does the thought alone bother you? Then you probably shouldn’t do it to someone else.

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Avoid texting in work meetings -

There are just some places where you shouldn't use your phone. Imagine your boss seeing you texting away and completely ignoring what’s going on. It looks bad on both of you. 

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Avoid texting in work meetings -

Also, if you’re the boss, being on your phone during meetings sets a bad example for your workers. Just put your phone on silent and focus on the meeting. 

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Don't talk about personal details in public -

Personal is just that: personal. If the person you're talking to wants to swap personal details, tell them you'll call them back later. 

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Don't talk about personal details in public -

Move someplace where you can have a little privacy, or switch to texting. It's much more considerate for the person on the other side of the line as well.  

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Avoid talking on the phone in a waiting room -

Waiting rooms can be crowded and noisy, and thus not the best place for a phone call. 

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Avoid talking on the phone in a waiting room -

If you must take the call, leave the area so as not to disturb your fellow waiting room occupants.

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When someone calls you out -

When someone asks you kindly to turn off your speaker, or the phone entirely, they likely have a good reason. 

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When someone calls you out -

People usually don't go out of their way to address someone in public unless they are truly being bothered, so try to have some understanding. 

See also: Dating rules you should break (and ones you really shouldn't)

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