We’ve all been there…we are in a quiet place like church or a meeting when our cell phone rings. You thought you had silenced it, but obviously you missed that step before going into the meeting. And it causes embarrassment for all of us. The best thing to do in that situation is apologize, if that is an option, or quickly silence or turn off your phone. But,something else to consider is the ring tone you have chosen and the notification sounds that alert you to a new message or text. Some of your choices can draw more attention to your phone going off than others, and be annoying to those around you.
Recently, I was getting a manicure and the manicurist’s phone kept “sneezing.” I asked what the sound was and she informed that it was her phone letting her know she had a text message. On top of the phone sneezing, she kept looking at her phone while doing my nails. To say the least, I didn’t feel like I was a priority.
Be sensitive to the sounds your phones make…those cell phone ring tones. To hear a “quack quack” sound from a nurse’s phone while caring for a sick patient or having your college fight song playing all three verses, for your ring tone will draw more attention to your phone going off anywhere, but especially in inappropriate places.
And for sure, it doesn’t sound professional.Take the time to think through your choices and where they will be heard.
Karen, I couldn’t agree more. A handyman that I frequently use has different ringtones for different friends and family. His phone is always on when he is working. That in itself drives me crazy, but the most startling ringtone is the chirping bird. Every time he gets a call from the “chirper”, I go nuts thinking that there is a bird in my house.
Thanks for commenting, Lydia. I always appreciate your input.
Well said Karen.
I recently attended a course and not only did the woman across from me not silence her phone, it made several “ring ring” sounds. It actually said “ring ring”! Annoying. Distracting. Inappropriate in a professional setting.
Thanks for commenting, Suzanne. I am sure we all have a story or two about annoying cell phone users.