Phonetiquette

The art of conversation has somewhat been lost due to text messaging, instant messaging, and the busy lives of many individuals.  When receiving a phone call we are sometimes in such a hurry or have out minds on other things that we don’t take the time to use proper phone etiquette.

Practicing proper phone etiquette should be something that everyone takes the time to do out of respect for others.  Here are some behaviors to keep in mind in order to have outstanding phone etiquette; I guess you could call it phonetiquette:

• Do not answer the phone if you are eating or chewing.
• Make sure that you speak clearly.  It is rude to mumble and have others straining to hear what you are saying.
• Do not place callers on hold for long periods of time.  If you have another call make certain that you will not be on the line for anymore than 30 seconds, otherwise call the other person back.
• Do not let a bad mood be reflected when answering the phone.  Assuming that the caller is not the reason that you are feeling this way, they shouldn’t have the anger taken out on them.
• Do not call too early in the morning, during dinner time, or too late in the evening.  Many people may have a different sleep schedule than you.  You should probably only call after 9am or before 9pm and avoid dinner time, approximately 6pm – 8pm.
• When ending a telephone call be sure to say goodbye.  Just hanging up the phone may be an indication that the conversation is over, but it is an extremely rude indication.

By using these rules and some others that you may already know of you will be someone that other actually want to call and enjoy speaking with over the phone.