By Mimi Raghian

Much has been made of cell phone use and the lack of consideration for others when people use them. Here are some tips for using your cell phone out in public.

1. Lower your voice in public or turn the phone off.

2. At theaters, in movies, during lectures or at church, cell phones should be off.

3. When asked to turn off your phone, do so immediately.

4. Give some space to others on cell phones. Stand at least 10 to 12 feet away to avoid hearing their conversations.

5. If you don’t want to share what you’re talking about, don’t shout into the phone.

6. When driving, act responsibly while on a cell phone. Pull over if you can.

7. Don’t take a cell phone to class. If you must, turn it off.

8. If you get a call which could annoy others, call back later or go outside to talk. No one wants to listen - not the people you are with, and especially not strangers next to you.

9. Check your phone volume. Your ringer should be loud enough for you to hear it from your purse or pocket. Most phones have a vibrate function just as effective as its ring. Keep your earpiece volume down as well. Hearing one side of a phone conversation is enough to make people roll their eyes - imagine hearing both sides.

10. Cell phones are designed for conversation at normal volume levels. You don’t have to speak loudly to be heard. Talk as you would on any other phone.

11. Keep your personal conversations for your home or somewhere private. Be considerate to the people around you and return those private calls at a more appropriate time.

Remember, the way you use your cell phone can tell a lot about you. So use it with a touch of class.

Raghian is a Certified Etiquette & Image Consultant at the Northern California School of Etiquette. For more information, call 559-9960 or visit www.NorcalEtiquette.com.