With the constantly developing landscape of technology, artificial intelligence, and smartphones, these devices have transformed how we communicate with each other. Cellphones are no longer considered luxury goods, these devices are essential tools for everyday life.
However, having good manners with regards to your mobile device and how you use it, is a vital part of life. Especially in this digital age. Cell C gives us the following tips that may be useful.
Out of sight, out of mind
At certain times it is expected that you put your phone on silent – such as any formal gathering (weddings, funerals, social engagements, movies, and meetings). Cellphones have become so integrated with our daily lives, that we forget they’re also an interruption and can become highly distracting.
Nobody is going to you talking or texting in a cinema/meeting/awards ceremony. Just as is the case with any other social behaviour, it’s our job to make sure that we have a sense of self- awareness as to when it’s inappropriate to use a cellphone and when to turn it onto silent and put it away.
Public noise alert
You may enjoy watching video’s, Instagram stories or podcasts on full blast in public, but not everyone around you may enjoy your tastes as much as you do. In fact, it may become annoying for them. Rather use headphones when you’re out in public as not to distract those around you. This way you’ll be more aware of your public cellphone behaviour at all times. An added bonus is that headphones enhance the listening experience.
Monitor screen time
Develop a habit of monitoring your screen time. We’ve all done it, you come home and scroll through social media while having a glass of wine. By the time you’ve quickly caught up on all the news on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Whatsapp an hour…. or two have gone by.
Some smart-phones come with a built-in monitor, where you can also put limits on your screen time. Alternatively, you can download one of several Apps that monitor your screen time on a daily or weekly basis. Some will even break this down to show how much time is spent on specific Apps. I love the fact that you can lock yourself out of apps once you’ve reached the limit you’ve set for yourself.
Very few of us, are aware of just how much time we spend staring at our phone screens. It’s a good idea to take a digital detox while on holiday, over weekends and while at social gatherings. Developing a healthy balance between time spent interacting with your phones and real-life interaction with family and friends has now become more important than ever.
Think before you type
Whether it’s in a text message or on social media – what you type on your phone is literally the same as saying it to someone in person or shouting it out in public. Never put anything on the internet that you would have a problem putting on a billboard, next to a picture of your face. We’ve seen people lose their jobs over the things they’ve said on social media. It’s just not worth it.
Your online identity affects the way others perceive you on a daily basis. Stay away from anything political, racial or religious as these are topics people have very strong views around. Remember that by sharing or liking a meme or post that you think is funny, puts you in the chain of distribution. You sharing the post says that you agree with the sentiments and can be held as legally responsible as the person who typed it.
Make sure your cellphone is protected
Make sure you understand the importance of protecting yourself online. The simple act of making sure your phone is password protected and installing a trusted malware App will help make sure nobody else can access your social media accounts via your phone, or any other personal information.
Ensure your apps are upgraded regularly as these come with additional security settings.
Don’t text and drive
This one really should go without saying by now, but it’s always worth repeating. It is never ok to just ‘send one text’ whilst driving. Some insurance companies will even refuse to pay your claim if they can prove that you were on your phone when the accident happened.
Happy texting friends!
Photo by Sara Kurfeß on Unsplash
