Smart Use of Smartphones and Tablets
Polite Use of Smartphones and Tablets
As we all get connected faster and faster over greater and greater distances, it's good idea step back once in a while and ask how the technology we are using affects the quality of the very important human interactions that are happening face-to-face all around us. The answer to these questions will vary from person to person and place to place, but the very act of considering them brings awareness that their use could be problematic and reduces the risk of unintentional bad behavior.
- Is this the right place to use my device? Are you in a restaurant, theater, or other public place where atmosphere and environment matter to those around you? Is a personal environment the right place for a work related connect? Is a work space appropriate for taking care of personal business? Sometimes the location matters as much as the people around you when deciding when to use your smartphone or tablet.
- How is the person I am connected to perceiving this interaction? Are they likely to be distracted by the buzz of your companion's chatter, the roar of the crowd, or the flushing of a toilet? On a video chat, what will the viewer see? Does the location make sense for the purpose of your call? If you are texting, maybe the person on the other end can't hear the sarcasm in your voice. If you are emailing, consider if you will be available to answer the reply when it comes. Take a second to play out the anticipated response chain before you initiate a communication to avoid confusion and upsetting those with whom you are connecting.
- How are my actions affecting others and how am I perceived? Both are important aspects of good etiquette. If you are perceived as being disrespectful it can be as damaging to a relationship as actually disrespecting someone. Be clear with the people around you about how you are using your device so they don't assume the worst. For example, if you are using your tablet to take notes at a meeting, it might be a good idea to let your boss know what you are doing. If you are leaving your phone on during a date because you can get fired for missing an important email, it might be a good idea to explain this at the beginning of the evening or even ask if it is still a good idea to go out at all. An ounce of prevention...
- Am I in control of my device? Any behavior can become habitual and start to escape your notice. Auto-responses, such as answering your device for a call, text, or update are hard to curb. It's up to you to actively manage your device. Be aware of your situation and keep and your etiquette radar fine tuned to possible offense.
Take away tip:
Practice taking a breath and noticing the people around you before responding to a call, text or alert. Adding a second or two to your response time is a small price to pay to cultivate awareness of and empathy for others. The simple act of bringing your attention into the moment and your current surroundings before connecting to the virtual world is a skill that will pay benefits and reap rewards both psychologically and with those whom you spend time with.
