April 18-25 (question #2)

2). Review the etiquette rules suggested in the text. Respond to each one. Have you ever been bothered by cell phone, answering machines, or beepers? What do you feel about call waiting? Is it rude to put people on hold to take another call?

I have to agree that using your phone in a public place can be rude and distracting to others that might be near you. The rule about cellular phones and not talking while at a restaurant or public sphere should be practiced or at least considered by everyone. I hate when people are using their cell phones in a movie theatre. Even if your quietly texting you can still see the bright distracting light in front of you. The rule about answering machines is also true. I must admit, I was one of those people (in high school) that left recorded songs on my answering machine. I came to understand that it is annoying and felt embarrassed when co-workers or family member called my phone. I’m not to familiar with the rules of conference calls and faxes. I don’t do much of both but they sound pretty reasonable. Timing your communications is a must. I worked at a sports camp for kids and had to call parents at a certain time of day so that we wouldn’t bother the recipient. Although I don’t agree with not being able to use our phones while driving. Finally, the rules against choosing a correct screen name and ringtones are completely true. You don’t want to give your boss a derogatory screen name nor have a ringtone called “baby got back.” I don’t believe it’s rude for someone to put someone on hold. I guess it all depends on who your putting on hold.