A New Twist to Cell Phone Etiquette

Cell phones today are used for much more than just talking. In fact the term “mobile device” is more appropriate as the ability to text, email, surf the web and take video and photos have become industry standard. While the advent of this technology has made it easy to stay connected to family, friends and business associates it has also created a social dilemma for some who place a misdirected priority on this ability to communicate.
Now I’m not talking about checking a text or email quickly after dinner or placing a brief call to check on the kids while you’re out. I’m referring to people who constantly drop out of a one-on-one conversation to carry on a texting exchange or engage in extended conversations leaving the person they are with “on hold”. Giving someone your undivided attention is a courtesy that seems to be a secondary priority with some people and in my mind is just plain rude. Are we that programmed to multi-task that we cannot defer these communications until it is appropriate? Is this another example of technology driving our social habits or are we forgetting what our parents taught us? Maybe a little bit of both. What do you think?

by Tim FairhurstBiz X Magazine

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Master of Distraction

Well, the cellphone driving ban has just come into play for real. Passed three months ago, the law prohibits the use of hand held devices and video display units while operating a motor vehicle. The high profile taboo of talking while driving has become all the talk with many people. Albeit now while stopped. On my daily drive through the county I have encountered cars pulled over to the shoulder of the road at all hours and locations. Further inspection as I cruise by usually reveals someone talking on a cellphone. Hey, maybe we're finally getting it. Distracted driving is dangerous driving. For the record hand free devices are allowed so the whole multitasking thing is still in effect for those who must always be "connected". I recently bought a bluetooth earpiece thats easy to use and unobtrusive but I seem to have to go out of my way to use it. I guess I dont really spend that much time in my vehicle to warrant (or get a ton of phone calls for that matter) it but thought it might be cool to use it in a store or the bank. I could walk around talking to whomever invisibly and look busy and important. Or not.
Dont talk and Drive

by Tim Fairhurst
Biz X Magazine

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