Back in the day, before cell phones or caller ID, when we invited friends over, they never brought their landline phones along with them. They sure do bring their cell phones with them now, however. If you’re the type of person whose cell phone rings constantly, keep in mind how difficult it is for the people you’re hanging our with to be put on hold every time your phone rings. When you’re with friends, use your judgment before reaching for that ringing phone; in fact, think twice about even leaving it on. After all, your caller can always leave a message on voice mail, to be returned as soon as you have a free moment.
When you decide to break off to take a call, excuse yourself and step away. If the call involves anything other than a very brief conversation, let the caller know that it’s not a good time to talk and that you’ll call him or her back another time.
