10 guidelines to not be a smartphone boor
Here are 10 ways in which…
While smartphones have connected many of us, they have nevertheless, brought with them techno-rudeness which ironically is making people distant.

Here are 10 ways in which you can avoid being rude around when with your phone.

1. Don't speak loudly on your phone

Don't speak loudly on your phone, in public or at workplace. It disturbs and distracts others who are unlikely to be interested in your shopping list, homework for your child or disagreement with your wife.

2. Keep your voice low

Keep your voice low, particularly when you are using Bluetooth (or earphones). People around you may mistakenly think you are speaking to them.

3. Don't leave your phone lying around

Don't leave your phone lying around in office when you are away or simply put it on mute. Your ringtone - that song which you find catchy or quirky - may just irritate others.

4. Pay heed to other road users and give them way

Pay heed to other road users and give them way. Often, car drivers on a phone neither accelerate, nor give way. Using the phone while driving, of course, remains a strict no-no.

5. Don't text while walking or driving

Don't text while walking or driving. You can bump into a pole, collide with another street user or crash your car.

6. Don't use your phone when you go the cinema

Don't use your phone when you go the cinema. Step out if you have to. The glare from your screens is very disturbing and your conversation even more.

7. Not every occasion is for taking photographs

Not every occasion is for taking photographs or recording videos. Respect the privacy of others and enjoy the moment.

8. Don't send unsolicited pearls of wisdom

Don't send unsolicited pearls of wisdom, religious stuff and publicity material to people on WhatsApp or email etc. They may not block you out of good manners but they will be surely clenching their teeth.

9. Do not take scan other's photos & messages

When looking at a photo or a message on someone else's phone, do not take this as an opportunity to scan other photos and messages without the owner's approval.

10. Don't scan your phone aimlessly

Don't scan your phone aimlessly while at a social gathering. Take a break, try to engage and imagine life without technology.