There are some hard, cold truths to the way we use our cell phones, but they've become commonplace to the point of forming an accepted, unwritten code. We screen calls when we should otherwise answer. We reply to missed calls with texts. We hope to reach voicemail on calls we have to (but don't want to) make. When we call someone and they don't answer, they may have looked at their phone and made a decision to not accept the call. The following are guidelines of cell phone etiquette and courtesy.

Screening Calls It's important to screen calls with a fine touch. It may be acceptable; you just can't do it too often.

The Missed Call Occasionally we legitimately miss a call. If it's a call we wanted to take, we'll return it immediately. Replying to a missed call with a text is acceptable. Sending a text is a great way of indicating that yes, you saw the call, you wanted to take it, but you just couldn't.

Intentional and Unintentional Dropped Calls Intentionally dropping a call when a conversation is inappropriate in length or content may occasionally be necessary.

The Challenge of Poor Reception Poor reception is one of the under-appreciated gems of the cell phone. You may hit dead spots where others have no problem. The inconsistencies are so consistent, that we don't even question them. No one even doubts a person's sincerity because it happens, even on calls you don't intentionally end.

The (IM and SMS) Personal Text Message (IM) Personal Texts are like BCCs on email. Texts are perfect for their convenience and they take little effort to write.

Speaking in Public There are several inappropriate places to talk on your cell, but none worse than the gate at an airport or a funeral. If you need to use your phone please cover your mouth and the speaker of the phone with your other hand. Don't talk on your cell phone in elevators, buses or trains. Texting is a great option and should be used when possible. It's unobtrusive and quiet. Using your cell phone while driving in the car is illegal in many countries. You may be able to use your speaker phone successfully while driving.

Phone Tag If a game of phone tag goes on for four calls (that is, both parties make two calls that go unanswered,) it is within the boundaries of proper etiquette to end the game and stop calling.

In placing two calls each, you've both sufficiently said your hellos, and by the voicemails you've left, the purpose of the call is clear. Please do leave a specific time you can be reached.

Lengthy Voicemail Messages If you reach voicemail, please speak slowly, be specific, say your name and phone number at the beginning of your message and at the end of your message.

Ring Tones A unique ring tone may be humorous the first time it is played and after that it becomes annoying. At that point you either need to select a new ring tone, or put your phone on vibrate.

Join Gloria Starr at an upcoming event such as the Modern Day Finishing School. Details at  www.gloriastarr.com/programs/modern-day-finishing-school