Phone Etiquette...

When you attend school, the things on the curriculum are supposed to help prepare you to function in society. Unfortunately, the subjects are actually rather limited and you are forced to learn most things on your own. One subject that I feel needs to be addressed is phone etiquette.

People need to learn the proper ways to answer the phone, speak on the phone, make phone calls...the list is endless. Yet, this obvious needed skill continues to go on ignored. So I have decided to take a moment to educate the masses.

A person should always answer the phone with a friendly demeanor. An appropriate greeting such as "Hello" or "Good morning/afternoon/evening" or "Thank you for calling..." with a very upbeat voice is the best way to interact with others on the telephone. Answering with "yo" or "what" or "who dis" is distasteful and causes the party on the other end to immediately disrespect you.

You should never chew gum or eat while communicating on the phone. The sound of chewing is extremely annoying and another form of disrespect to the party on the other line. Disposing of your gum or finishing you meal before speaking on the phone can ensure a pleasant conversation.

Speaking with others while on the phone is also inappropriate. You should always give your undivided attention to the person on the line since they are the ones you are supposed to be speaking to. If you are unable to give your undivided attention, then you should end the call immediately.

Calls before 8 am or after 10 pm is entirely inappropriate unless there is an emergency. Calling anyone before or after these hours is very disrespectful and opens one up for disrespect in return.

If a wrong number has been dialed, apologizing to the wrong party is much more courteous than an abrupt dial tone. Also accepting the apology when wrong dialed is well mannered and appreciated.

These are just the main lessons society need be taught. I know they seem fairly simple and along the lines of common sense, but trust me...THEY ARE NOT! I have grown to despise answering the phone since most encounters are extremely troublesome. So for all of you out there that think you are well mannered and skilled in the art of telephony, read the above pointers and memorize them. Cause I refuse to put up with you rude ass mother fuckers anymore!