In our ever-developing and changing existence, is it possible that while the world becomes smaller, time rushes by faster and communication becomes more separated, we are losing the charm and bonhomie of common manners?

We have all been the unfortunate recipients of tasty pieces of gossip from complete strangers as they yack away on their cell phones in movies, restaurants and shopping malls as though they were in the privacy of their own homes. People prioritise cell phones as though they were life support mechanisms of some type that would lead to an immediate and painful death if they weren’t gripped tightly in one’s sweaty hand or at least in a nearby bag. From weddings to funerals, and everywhere in between, ringtones are filling the world with noise pollution.

The problem with cell phones is that there is nothing wrong with them, but everything wrong with the people using them (I guess that is just about everyone).

Admittedly I am no guru in the art of cell phone etiquette and I, like most others, have been frightfully rude on occasion as a result of my Nokia life support machine. I do however have an appreciation for those methods of politeness which bring me as close as possible to the era of chivalry and charm, when princes rode white horses and saved princesses from all forms of evil, from dragons to impolite company.

It is commonly known that to have a friend, one must be a friend. Well, similarly, to find a prince one must act like a princess. A great starting point is by ensuring that your cell phone etiquette is always on tip top form. When a cell phone interrupts a social or a business meeting, not only is it annoying and disruptive, but it speaks a silent message (whether that is intended or not) that the person you are currently with or the issue you are dealing with is not important enough to warrant your highness’s undivided attention. Turn your cell phone off during meetings and rendezvous. If an urgent phone call is expected, apologise in advance to the person you are meeting with and explain the dire consequences of missing the call. Urgent calls do not include the latest tidbits on Brad and Angelina’s coveted relationship.

If you are a business owner or manager it is important to infuse similar habits into your staff so that the entire company gives off an air of sophistication and courtesy. Publish guidelines in employee handbooks, newsletters or on the intranet and lead by example.

Here are some further tips on cell phone etiquette:

• Let your voicemail take your calls when you’re in meetings, conferences and restaurants. Few calls are too important to wait. If you must talk, excuse yourself and find a secluded area.

• Never display anger while talking on the phone in public places. Colourful language and flying fists are no way to attract desirable company.

• Put your phone on silent in movie theatres, religious services, funerals, and social gatherings.

• Never interrupt conversations by answering your cell phone, checking voice mails and sending or receiving text messages.

• Use discretion when talking on cell phones. You never know whose itchy ears are flapping or who might be just round the corner at an audible distance.

• Be responsible when making calls or talking on the phone while driving. Only make calls when the car isn’t moving and use a hands-free device if you start driving to keep your focus on the roadway. Short of an accident, if an austere policeman catches you chatting, you might be locked away in a cold, dark cell or be forced to part with your hard-earned cash.

With a few simple laws and guidelines we might yet realise the dream of chivalry and elegance that is being butchered by our crass and impatient world!

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