Cell Phones. A new Form of Rude, by Dr. Ogi Ressel

Sunday, January 4th 2009

Warm hellos to everyone!
I have something a little different for you this week:
Most of you know that my daughter, Christie, is an Image Consultant. She is the VP of the International
Association of Image Consultants and assists me in teaching the PEP Program.
She recently published an article in her newsletter that I wanted to share with all of you - I felt that it is
applicable to almost all of us and she received a tremendous amount of feedback from it.  
                                                              

                                      Cell phones: The new form of rude?

Technology is constantly growing and changing. Today, people are expecting instant gratification and response to their desires and questions. When smart phones first came onto the scene, we all knew - this was the answer we were looking for: A way to get more done, in less time.

Every meeting, networking event, or lecture I give; these phones are present. But, as a society are we now too dependent on our Blackberry's? Although they assist us in becoming incredibly efficient, they are also becoming the new "faux pas" with etiquette and credibility in our business and personal lives. Consider this: Do you know when you're snubbing someone?

At a Lunch-and-Learn, for example, most people have their phones on the table.
Now, let's think about this: What does this say to the person you're with? What does it say to the presenter your are listening to? 
If you have your phone on the table, you are letting everyone in the room know that they are a second in priority to you.
Why?
Because, the second your phone rings, flashes, beeps, or vibrates, your attention will be diverted to it. Those people in your presence will no longer have your full and undivided attention.
Sound like a great way to do business or grow relationships?
NOT!

Almost every client I deal with, I first need to sit down and speak with them about cell phone etiquette. Talking or typing on your phone while simultaneously conversing with someone in front of you has become so common that most people don't even think that they are being rude! A recent CEO I was working with said to me that he'll dismiss anyone who pulls out their phone while speaking with him - including business deals!

So how do we get around this common faux pas and save our credibility?

If you are in a personal or business situation, first off, keep you phone out of sight. I recommend having it on vibrate. If you are expecting a really important call, let those surrounding you know. That way, when the call comes through, you won't be perceived as rude and obnoxious!
Make sure that you also excuse yourself when having to take a call that is crucial. There is nothing worse than someone trying to "hush" the people around them because they are on a call.
Although our technology is fantastic, remember: face to face interactions come first. Everything else is second.

Warmest wishes,
Christie Ressel,
International Image Consultant and Stylist
Personal Power Image Consulting^TM©
http://www.personalpowerimage.com
christie@personalpowerimage.com was giving recently, I was embarrassed to see that almost everyone in the room sat down at the table and immediately placed their cell phones on the table beside them. This is also common in dining situations, both, for personal and business

If any of you are interested in subscribing to her newsletter, please register online
at: www.personalpowerimage.com, or write Christie directly.
My warmest wishes,
Dr. Ogi Ressel

Your Affirmation for this week:
                                                                           My work is deeply fulfilling.
                                                              Today, I give my best to that which I do,
                                                       Knowing that when one experience is complete
                                            I am led to even more fulfilling and rewarding experiences!