Silence Those Cell Phones

It is such a simple thing but you would be surprised how often it occurs: the annoying cell phone ring. Your cell phone is one of your lifeblood's in the business world, but like anything else you have to astutely manage it.

How many times have you gone to a wedding or a movie theater and you STILL hear someone's cell phone ring. Unbelievable but it still happens. All of us understand that is it a common courtesy to have the phone on silent, if not turned off so there are no distractions. But like that old trite saying, "there is always someone".

The point here is DO NOT be that someone. When it comes to dealing with clients or talking with your boss, offer them your undivided attention. Perhaps you were running late and did not think about it. Maybe you had to abruptly hang up the phone just before you entered the board meeting and quickly put it in your pocket. As frustrating as it may be, no one will ever thank you for having your phone off, but the second it rings people will take notice. Remember, the little things also matter. The bottom line is if that phone rings aloud you are beyond the point of no return.