10 Tips for Mastering Phone Etiquette

You use the phone everyday in real estate but could you be turning off potential customers with your poor phone etiquette? Follow these basic strategies to make sure your phone behavior is up to par.

By John D. Mayfield

Minimalism advocate D.H. Mondfleur once said, “Cell phones are the latest invention in rudeness.”

In fact, 68 percent of Americans say they observe poor cell phone etiquette—such as with overly loud conversations—at least once every day, according to a national poll from market research group Synovate.

Could you unknowingly be one of these offenders?

Here are some basic cell phone etiquette rules to keep in mind when interacting with colleagues and customers:

1. Remember who you’re working with. How would you feel if you were having an important conversation with a sales associate, and she broke off the discussion every time her mobile phone buzzed? Your customers are your boss. They want your attention, and you're compensated for the time you spend with them. Block out all other issues while you’re working with them and make sure you give them your full, undivided attention during the appointment.

2. Bluetooth headsets are not meant to be permanent. It’s good to use hands-free devices such as Bluetooth headsets, especially when driving or multitasking—but they don’t have to be affixed to your head 24/7. If you’re showing a property, attending a meeting, or simply having lunch with a client, get rid of the headset! Bluetooth is fine when you’re alone in your office or driving in your car, but try to avoid keeping it in your ear all hours of the day.

Click Here for More Tips on Phone Etiquette