Gentleman’s Etiquette: Mobile Phones

Mobile Phones: we may all have ‘em but we certainly don’t all know how to use ‘em. Follow the guidelines below to progress from a mere man-with-mobile to a gentleman-with-a-mobile.

Rule 1: Refrain as much as possible from using your mobile in the company of others. Constantly bringing out your phone does not prove your popularity; it merely shows a lack of attention to those around you.

Rule 2: Mobile phones and meals do not mix. Never have your phone on anything but silent in a restaurant and do not put it on the table. If you need to check it, excuse yourself for a moment. The only exception to this is when you are on your own but, again, discretion is imperative.

Rule 3: A gentleman is always prompt. This also applies to texts and calls. Please note we said ‘prompt’ and not ‘persistent’; there is a clear difference.

Rule 4: You will never catch a gentleman gossiping on the phone and a gentleman does not ‘chat’. Face-to-face engagement is always the preferred option.

Rule 5: Txt Spk iz a no-no ?. Always use correct English, please.

By Christiana Hambro