Cell & Land Line Phone Etiquette....

*Several requests for this topic have been requested. This post first appeared last year.

Land Line & Cell Phone Etiquette....

Use your Manners while using the Phone...

Rudeness and lack of consideration has crept into our everyday lives. 

This happens on "BOTH" ends of the phone. 

Whether it is a land line or mobile phone!

When using phone etiquette, just use the "Golden Rule", 
Do unto others, as you would have them do unto you....

Simple Rules for Phone Manners:

Check the number you are calling before you dial. 

If you call a wrong number, apologize politely. 

If you received a wrong number call, explain politely they have called

 a wrong number.

Give people enough time to answer the phone...they may be busy too!

 Leave them a polite message on their voice mail, if you need a returned call.

A short concise message with your phone number is all that's needed.

 

Don't make a call if you don't have the time to talk. If you need to be quick,

 state it up front! Ask if it is convenient to talk now. Ask if you are

 interrupting anything? Let them know... "they" may call you back at a more convenient time.

If "they" say they have a "moment"...keep it short. Ask them to call "you" 

back

if you need more talk time! If you say you will call back....CALL BACK!

When "YOU" call someone don't ask them "wait" while you "do" something else....unless there is an emergency! The same goes for when you "answer"

 the phone.

Talk clear and concise on the phone. Loud enough to be heard. But...not 

so loud that everyone KNOWS your personal business. Everyone has enough worries in their life without hearing YOURS!

Always say; Hello, Please, Thank You and Goodbye! Always identify whom is

 speaking. Even though, "they" may have "caller id",... it doesn't mean they

 know "who" is on the phone.

Be an attentive listener! It is hard to have a conversation with someone who 

doesn't practice this art...what is good for one, is good for all.

Haven't we all had this caller: "Yackey-Yack-Yack, all about ME, and then doesn't listen too YOU"! It makes you not want to answer their next phone call!) 

Use common courtesy at all times.

Use the person's name when you talk, especially when thanking them etc. 

Just like you would in person.

If "bad" news needs to be delivered, if at all possible deliver it in person.

Answer your phone promptly or return the caller's phone call promptly.

Never be too busy to be nice and polite. Being pleasant usually works best. 

If you have rude caller and they won't listen...hang up after you inform them

 you're doing so....

If you have company, let the caller know that you must be brief. And, that 

you will return their phone call at a later time.

If you take a phone message, do so clearly with the name and phone number.

 Make sure the right person gets the message. 

Always return your calls in a timely manner.

Try to let the caller end the phone call first. Unless... you have a caller that

 continues on and on, over and over...then excuse yourself from the call.


Children should not answer the phone unless properly instructed in phone 

etiquette. Especially business calls...


If you answer or call from someone else's phone... always identify who is 

answering or calling.


Phone calls in general should never be made before 7:00am or after 9:00pm 

(I prefer 8:00pm for my household. That is our relax and sit back time.)

 Unless otherwise prearranged. Always try to avoid mealtimes.

If you are a solicitor calling, phone etiquette is a MUST. Do you want to be

 called at home by a rude solicitor? I think NOT. Do unto others...

NEVER eat while talking on the PHONE!

If you have more than one extension on your home number:
If you answer the phone on one extension, and alert another person they

 have a phone call...when they pick up the other extension, carefully and

quickly hang up your extension. It is EXTREMELY rude to listen in on a 

 conversation that is NOT yours!

It is also extremely rude to be LISTENING on an extension to an incoming 

phone call THAT you have not answered. 

 You NEVER listen in on someone's personal phone call. 

If you pick up the phone announce that you are joining the conversation.

 

 There is no apology for that kind of behavior! It is never acceptable!

 (*It also causes unnecessary background noise, which is also rude. 

Rudeness can be avoided, just like many accidents.) 


Keep your general phone calls to a minimum so as not to interfere with 

other people's daily routine's or schedules. 

Make business calls well before the end of the business day. Unless you

 have a prearranged appointment.

These are few cell phone rules in addition to the above information....

When in public places, put your phone on silent or vibrate.

 If you forget, do so immediately when it rings, beeps....etc. 

Events such as; Movies, Weddings, Graduations, Dining, Funerals, 

Business meetings, Party's....get the idea?

 Same goes for texting....just kick in the common sense and courtesy.

Excuse yourself from the table or room if you need to answer or make a 

phone call. (*Keep in mind there may be reasons for people not excusing themselves...one of them is physical handicaps, seen or not seen.

 It may not always be easy to get "up!" They, also should use their 

common sense & courtesy at the table. And so should YOU!)

 Today, because of mobile phones, people are able to conduct business

 just about anywhere. Being polite needs to be used on both sides of the 

fence! 

Games on the phone are for waiting rooms....not the dinner table. 

 Although, it can be a great tool for a bored child at dinner,

 but NEVER an adult.

If you are talking on a cell phone and you are with another person,

 such as in a store, keep walking. If you can walk and chew gum...

you can walk and talk!

In California (and some other States) you now have restrictions about talking 

and holding the phone while driving. Newer cars have sync systems that

 connect your phone to the vehicle's stereo system, making hands free calls 

simple. There are also ear pieces and portable systems that do the same. 

When receiving a phone call from a cell phone user, you may hear traffic noise, a faint or tin can sound in their voice. This is NOT the callers fault. 

It has to do with the technology. If you can't hear them,

 it is YOUR responsibility to inform them. Otherwise, how will they know?

 Also keep in mind that this technology is not perfect.

 If you can't hear someone, say you will call back.

 Don't be ignorant and blame them! Use you manners!

When on your speaker phone or the speakers in your vehicle WITH passengers...

ALERT the person on the other end that THEY are being heard by ALL! 

Dropped calls occur often. These are not the callers fault. 

Lots of things cause this to happen. USE your patience and COMMON sense.

And... LAST but not LEAST....

Whether you are on a land line or a cell....make sure you END your

 phone call. BEFORE... you STUPIDLY do something! Like... 

TALK about the person you THOUGHT you hung up with! 

This has happened to us, and "others" that we know! 

 ***This happens sometimes when a caller gets a text or email while

 ending the phone call. You CANNOT end the call until the other person 

hangs up THEIR phone OR about 10-20 minutes pass and the vehicle finally disconnects the original call. Then it's TOO LATE,

 they have HEARD EVERYTHING you've said!

"BEEN THERE, DONE THAT...DON"T WANT TO GO THERE AGAIN!" 

(And,... "that" can cause another "whole set" of problems....BOY HOWDY!)

 Ignorance is NOT Bliss, when you use BAD MANNERS!

I may have missed a few rules of etiquette. But, this covers quite a few. 

But, it all boils down to using common courtesy 24-7-365!    

As Always Be Gracious & Kind with Style...

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A Toast to the New Year...

CHEERS TO THE NEW YEAR...2012

Here are a few New Year's Toasts & Blessings
 for your use and enjoyment:

Irish Toast:

In the New Year, may your right hand always be stretched out in friendship, never in want.

Martin Luther:

Glory to God in highest heaven,

Who unto man His Son hath given;

While Angels sing with tender mirth,

A glad new year to all the earth

Benjamin Franklin:

Be always at war with your vices, 

At peace with your neighbors,

and let each New Year find you a better man.

William Arthur Ward:

This bright new year is given to me

To live each day with zest

To daily grow and try to be

my highest and my best!

Vern McLellan:

What the New Year brings to you will depend a great deal on what you bring to the New Year.

Ring in the New Year with Style...

*All photos were courtesy of Pinterest

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Re-Gifting; Do I or Don't I...

Tis the season for gifts. But what are the rules of re-gifting? We have all had experience with this dilemma. Either we have re-gifted something to someone or received a re-gifted gift. 

Re-gifted gifts were born from gifts that are received and don't fit the recipients needs or likes. The best way to NOT have a gift re-gifted is to KNOW the person you are giving the gift too!

There are few etiquette rules that will help you decide how to approach re-gifting.
~~~
1. If you choose to re-gift:
Remove any and all signs of previous ownership regarding the gift. Make sure there are no tell tale signs of prior wrapping, packaging or previous opening of said gift. Check for any personal messages, monograms, etc.

2. Re-gift items that are brand new, never had prior use or opened. The rule of thumb is to re-gift with-in the first calendar year. Keep in mind if the gift came from a known or local store, check to see if the store is still in business.
You don't want to be caught with egg on your face. :(

3. Some items should NEVER be re-gifted. Anything that has been opened or used. One-of-a-kind gifts or homemade items. 
And NEVER re-gift something from a close relative or friend. It could cause severe trauma to the relationship. Who wants to go there?

4. If you must re-gift; keep a list of who gave you the gift and who you gave it to. You don't want to re-gift the person who gave you the gift in the first place! 
WOW, that would be horrible!

5. It you do re-gift, re-wrap the gift beautifully! Take the time to present the "gift" in a thoughtful manner.

6. Acceptable reasons for re-gifting; 
A. If your finances are tight and you are certain the recipient would enjoy the gift more than you do. 
B. If you are attending a party, last minute, and don't have time to shop.
C. Or an act of generosity; 
Use re-gifted gifts for donations to those are less fortunate.
D. Re-gifting may be used for a secret Santa gift exchange. Or as a gag gift!

7. Consider the art of re-gifting and the responsibility that comes with it. Consider the person and the gift when paring them together. You don't want to insult anyone. Besides, not buying the appropriate gift for someone is how the re-gifting cycle starts.

8. Accept the (re)-gift graciously. It's the best solution. 
Later, if you don't want to keep the gift, simply donate it to a charity of your choice.

9. If you are a serial re-gifter...then consider re-gifting MY BLOG to all your friends and family. Go ahead, I don't mind...re-gift all you want. 
It's the gift that keeps on giving!!! LOL :)
~~~
The Art of Re-Gifting with Grace & Style...

*All photo's of packages: taken from Google Free Images.

Join this site today and automatically be entered in our first 100 members drawing for a beautiful set of jewelry.

@Jewelry Photo's are the property of Pine Creek Style

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Saying Grace on Thanksgiving Day...

Today I wanted to share a few Thanksgiving Prayers with you and your family.

 May you have a beautiful Thanksgiving Day to share and remember always. 

Thanksgiving Dinner Prayer

Heavenly Father, on Thanksgiving Day

We bow our hearts to You and pray.

We give You thanks for all You've done

Especially for the gift of Jesus, Your Son.

For beauty in nature, Your glory we see

For joy and health, friends and family,

For provision, Your mercy and care

These are the blessings You graciously share.

So today we offer this response of praise

With a promise to follow You all of our days.

~Mary Fairchild~

We Give Thanks

Our Father in Heaven,

We give thanks for the pleasure

Of gathering together for this occasion.

We give thanks for this food,

We pray for health and strength

To carry on and try to live as You would have us.

This we ask in the name of Christ,

Our Heavenly Father.

~Harry Jewell~

Thanksgiving

For each new morning with its light,

For rest and shelter of the night,

For health and food,

For love and friends,

For everything Thy goodness sends.

~Ralph Waldo Emerson~

Abundant Blessing

We thank you for the turkey,

The gravy and the dressing.

Dear Lord, this table overflows

With Thy abundant blessing.

Let us always be aware

That all gifts come from You,

And may we serve Your heavenly will

In everything we do. Amen.

~Joanna Fuchs~

Have a Happy Thanksgiving full of Grace & Style...

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Using Healthy Manners...

We are all so busy with our daily lives and work! We can't afford to get SICK! If you are like me, I try to not physically cringe when someone is sick around me. Nothing against them, I just don't want or have the time to be sick!

Since the weather has changed so quickly, I thought a reminder of "Healthy Manners" would be appropriate. Everyday we encounter germs from someone or something! 

First things first, we all need to be responsible for ourselves and our family. Make some room on your calendar for yearly shots and Doctor's appointments if needed. Keep the first aid drawer stocked with supplies; for cold, flu, aches and pains. Make sure the heating pad, ice bags, thermometers, etc., are ready and waiting (hopefully not used). 

It doesn't hurt to have a few quick comfort foods and drinks on hand either. Your favorite cans of soup or stews, crackers, etc.
 Drinks; water, ginger ale, tea's, even hot chocolate. :)
 What ever foods make you feel good when your sick.
Always BOOST your immunity!

That being said, lets go on to "Healthy Manners":


1. Always WASH your HANDS! This is the easiest and best thing we can do for ourselves and others. It is always proper etiquette to wash your hands after bathroom use, and before and after eating.  In public places such as; hospitals, doctor and dentist offices, schools and churches, washing your hands is also necessary.   
Just about anywhere you go, 24/7/365, there are germs. You never know if someone is sick or other harmful germs are lurking about. Door handles, shopping carts, you name it, germs everywhere! 
I carry handi-wipes in my purse, have for years. Some stores are now providing wet-wipes near the shopping carts! That is wonderful! 
BRAVO for THEM!

2. Upon sneezing or coughing, cover your mouth and nose properly. Meaning; NOT with your HAND! The proper way to handle this (and this is acceptable) is to turn your head to the right into your shoulder. OR cough or sneeze into your crooked elbow. 
You don't want to use your hand, you may have to shake hands later! 
Ew-wee, Smoo-ee! YUCK!
When you sneeze or even cough, excuse yourself and blow your nose. Then wash your hands, after disposing the tissue in the garbage. No one should hear you trying to breath through an open mouth or stuffy nose!

3. Breath through your nose as much as you can. Your nose was designed to FILTER out GERMS. You will stay healthier. Breathing through your nose is also good for your mouth and teeth too, keeping them healthier, as well! 

4. Kisses! Some people love to kiss you hello and goodbye. And that is fine. In some countries, a kiss on the cheek is a sign of respect. Expected even.
But if you are the kisser; closed lips, cheeks are best, and NEVER if you are SICK. 
If you are the receiver, there is nothing wrong with slightly turning your head and presenting your cheek. If you are SICK, it is your responsibility to inform the kisser.
The preference is YOURS how (or IF) you receive the kiss. 
No one should ever be offended when offering a "kiss of friendship," 
it should always be the receivers choice.  
And, finally, KISSING is usually reserved for people who know each other well!

5. Shaking hands with another is always proper etiquette and pretty much expected in the business world. You should always offer a handshake. 
*Note: There are some proper medical excuses that should be understood and need never explained. "If you have pain, refrain." Having a diagnosis of arthritis (3 types), I understand. There are times when I can't stand the thought of shaking hands. Just the thought of it makes me cringe with pain. You never know another persons reasons, just accept it.
 So consider any options /reasons that may apply.
There are some people that excuse themselves from shaking hands with the reason that they are SICK! Well, I am sorry but if they are SICK or they think they are SICK, WHY ARE THEY NOT HOME! They should be at home, PERIOD!
If you are the receiver of a handshake and you are not sure if the other person is SICK then excuse yourself, and wash your hands.

6. Be DISCREET and act RESPONSIVELY. If you are sick, take extra measures to protect others from your germs. If you or your child is sick, STAY HOME. (*People will respect "that" decision)
Give yourself 24-48 hours to recoup from your illness. 
It's the right and polite thing to do! 
Use your best manners when you are sick. Period!

Have a Healthy and Happy Holiday with Style...

*Photo's are a product of pine creek style and google images

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It's the Season for Thank-you's!

While sitting in church several years ago, our Pastor commented on giving thanks.

Not only to God, but to the people around us, for being in our lives. This was around Thanksgiving and I thought this was a great idea.

photo by NeeCee

 So, I started a yearly tradition for myself. I make a small list, and send out thank you cards at Thanksgiving. I pick a hand full of people and write a small note to thank them for the difference they make in my life. Whether it be big or small, it all makes a difference. The response has been great.

 Sometimes, I wish I could be a little mouse in the corner. So I could see the question in their eyes regarding a thank you note arriving from nowhere. And the smile that follows when they read the thank-you note. 

I do love unexpected gestures of kindness! Who doesn't?

photo by NeeCee

 I have "surprised" a few people. They had no idea they made a difference, especially in MY life. I've even taken "it" a step further by writing letters to loved ones. Just to thank them for loving me and having a presence in my life. No matter if it was one day or years, big or small. I am so grateful to have done this in written form. Sometimes you can't quite say what or how you feel verbally. I know these have been well received, because I had a few long lasting hugs in return.

A few of these people have now passed away. So I am grateful to have shared my thoughts with them..."sooner because there was NO later". 

Giving Thanks is always appreciated. That's why WE need to do it more often. It's the right thing to do.

 Below is a list of (just a few) when to send to send a Thank You note:

Starting with gifts first, since the season is rapidly upon us. 

Gifts:

All gifts should be acknowledged with a verbal thank you if the giver is present.

A written Thank you should be sent within the week of receiving said gift. This pertains to any gift given for any occasion throughout the year. 

(Including wine & alcohol, food baskets, housewarming gifts....)

A lot of people say an immediate verbal thank you is sufficient. Today it is more acceptable, but it's still nice to receive a hand written thank you. Within your immediate family, this practice should be fine. Unless you're teaching children about sending thank-yous, then it would be a great way to teach them. 

Loved this Thank-you...found it on google images.

Only my kids would put $40.00 in the bank! I was tough! But then again, they never received anywhere near that amount! LOL

I always taught my children, if the gift was money, to explain how the money was going to be used. The grandparents and great-grandparents loved to know that some of the money would go into their savings accounts.

photo by NeeCee

Dinners or Parties:

A handwritten note to the host or hostess is a wonderful gesture on thanks and appreciation. These should be sent the day after the dinner/party. It is also proper to thank them verbally that evening or the next day by telephone. An email or text is also acceptable the next day. A handwritten note must still be sent.

photo by NeeCee

Flowers:

If you receive flowers a formal thank you is not necessary. However, a phone call or an email is always appreciated and a thoughtful gesture.

Job Interviews:

A thank you note, handwritten, is proper protocol following an interview. This is part of your first impression and sometimes crucial to the interview process. Make sure you take or ask for a business card after the first interview. You'll want to make sure you have the correct spelling of their name and address. Make sure to double check your grammar before sending the thank you card.

Wedding/Baby Showers:

Handwritten thank you cards are the most suitable way to express your sincere thoughts. Thank your guests for attending the event and mention the gift and/or use of said gift. Send them within a timely manner.

*I was so impressed with a Bride recently that I thanked her. She sent her thank yous out "within" a month of the wedding. 

There have been some, I have never received!

Hand-Me-Downs:

Big ticket items are best acknowledged with a handwritten thank you note. 

Smaller items, an email is sufficient. It is a kind gesture to thank them for your generosity.

Helping Hands:

Anyone who helps you with something; moving, painting, special yard work , etc. deserves a handwritten thank you. Driving you to the store or appointment, etc., an email in the form of a thank you will suffice. 

It's the season for Giving Thanks with Style...

To all of my members and followers for loving my blog...

May you have a blessed HOLIDAY SEASON...NeeCee

**All photo's belong to Pine Creek Style & some were found on Google Images.

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