e-Vents

[ Wednesday ]

 

Etiquette

Much has been written about various forms of etiquette as it relates to technology devices. Take cellular telephones, for example...

Due to safety concerns, jurisdictions have enacted, and many others have and are proposing, a ban on cell phone usage in vehicles unless the user utilizes a hands-free device. I would personally admit that this is a step in the right direction. But a more crucial question might be, 'Why are people driving around with only one hand on the wheel?'

I use an earbud-type headset in the car, at home, and in the office. Reason number one: I can hear more clearly, and my voice on the other end sounds more natural, or so I am told. Additionally, I drive a car with a 5-speed transmission, and enjoy going through the gears without having to fumble with the cell phone. My greatest fear is seeing a Ford Excursion (for example) in my rear view mirror, coming toward me with some driver talking on the phone, while looking at the kids in the rear seats. That may be the single reason that so many large SUVs have been sold in recent years...self preservation.

What really annoys me about cell phones, is that people tend to take them everywhere. As a result, many restaurants now ban their use, and retail stores might be wise to do the same. I cannot count the times that I have overheard shoppers using their phones in the supermarket, or while waiting in line (queing) at the cashier. What an annoyance to others. Some bystanders have resorted to turning on personal radios, et cetera, when this occurs...to give a message to the user.

People tend to make calls and answer incoming calls while doing the strangest things. At the top of the list would be talking on the phone in a public restroom. Personally, I have hung up on people who I suspect are calling me from these places...and trust me, you can tell. I also receive calls from people ordering food at the drive-through of a fast food 'restaurant', or while at the inside counter. PLEASE...I am not interested in having a 3-way conversation with an unknown party, especially over a loudspeaker.

So, if you are one of those who believes that their time is so important that they must call from a bathroom, restaurant, supermarket, or noisy automobile, I have one suggestion for you..."DON'T !"

MM [11:20]