Remember when being courteous included a hand written thank-you note or holding the door open for the person behind you? Along with the conveniences of smartphones, tablets and laptops come a new set of unspoken day-to-day tech etiquette norms – and tech peeves.  

July is National Cell Phone Courtesy Month – and we’re here to help bring you up to speed with these tech etiquette do’s and don’ts for the 21st century. Every week this month, we are sharing handy video tips featuring common tech peeves. In the video above, we show you the wrong and right way to use your smartphone in a crowded elevator.

A few additional tips to remember when using your device in a public or crowded setting:

  • It’s OK to excuse yourself to take the call. If the matter is urgent, you can always excuse yourself from the group to go to a quiet setting with privacy.
  • If you can’t escape, hang up. The person on the other line will appreciate you giving them your undivided attention – and your neighbors will appreciate not listening to you ramble on the phone.
  • Be conscious of your surroundings. Never discuss private, business-sensitive issues in a public setting. Period.
  • Use an indoor voice. The person on the other line can hear you – no need to yell – especially in a public setting.

Check back for another #TechPeeve etiquette lesson - coming soon!