JS Tip 171: From the Communication Workshops: Speakerphone Etiquette

A good friend asked us to address speakerphone etiquette.  

Bingo. Done.

Never use the speakerphone if you’re the only one on your end of the call. There’s an arrogance in using the speakerphone: “I’m sorry, but you’re not important enough for me to pick up the four-ounce handset.”   

Never answer a call on speakerphone. The poor sound quality (echo
echo echo) makes a poor first impression. Answer on the handset, and then, if necessary, go to the speakerphone.    

Always ask permission. “Annette’s in the office and would like to join the conversation. May I put you on speakerphone?”

Close the door. Turn off the background music. The speakerphone picks up the ambient noise and garbles your message. 

Use a headset to work hands-free. The sound quality will be better, and you—and the person you’re talking to—will have more privacy.

If you have questions, suggestions, or arguments, let us know. We love this stuff. We really do.

Next week: Another reader inquiry: When Do We Capitalize? Whoa. When not?