How to Use Your Cell Phone “Wisely”

There is no doubt about it, cell phone use is on the increase. Not only are they being used to make telephone calls, they are used for texting, taking pictures, ordering merchandise, watching movies, playing games, and navigating via GPS. They have become an integral part of our lives. Here are three tips to keep you safe when using your cell phone.

Avoid Driving and Talking
First, avoid driving and talking on the cell phone at the same time. Studies have found that drivers talking on cell phones, either handheld or hands-free, are more likely to crash because they are distracted by conversation.

A situation even worse is where people are dialing or texting while driving. As of September 2010, it is illegal to talk and drive while on a cell phone in nine states. Whether you state still allows it or not, it makes sense to keep focused on driving and use your cell phone in your car only when you are parked.

Use a Cell Phone with an Air Tube Apparatus
Next, avoid putting the phone directly to your ear. More and more studies are showing that the radiation that is emitted from a cell phone includes a radius of 7 -12 inches. Some experts suggest you invest in a headset that uses an air tube as part of the apparatus. Another approach is to use the speaker phone feature on your cell phone. While there is strong evidence that suggests that using your cell phone for as little as 500 minutes per month can increase your chances of getting cancer by 50%, many people still don’t believe there is a risk. The choice is yours.


Put Your Cell Phone on Silent Mode
Finally, it is a professional courtesy to put your cell phone on silent mode or to turn it off before entering a meeting. Most times the calls that come in during that time can be simply saved to voice mail and answered at a later time.

By using your cell phone wisely, you will live longer, stay healthier and be more productive. If you are interested in a better career in administration visit www.administrativejobs.com


Tom Borg is president of Tom Borg Consulting, LLC. He is a business consultant, speaker, coach and author. He helps companies and organization become more profitable by increasing their value and lowering their costs through the professional development of their managers and employees.