Quick Tip - Shushing a Loud Cell Phone Talker
By Ken Okel

Janet, one of my clients from Chicago, recently asked my advice on dealing with people who talk loudly on their cell phones while in public. I know I’ve been guilty of this offense before as my voice tends to project very well and sometimes I forget that I don’t need to speak very loudly for my phone to pick it up.

Sometimes, like when you’re in a movie theater, any kind of loud cell phone talking needs to be quieted immediately and the most direct way is the best. But often in public, you may feel a bit awkward telling a stranger to mute him or herself.

The other day at the gym, I found myself in this second scenario. I was on a treadmill with my headphones on. Despite the noise of the machine and my music, I could easily make out the cell phone conversation of a woman who was on nearby treadmill. She wasn’t directly next to me so she wouldn’t have heard a, “shush,” sent in her direction. I decided to try to use a different approach to the situation.

After I finished my workout, I walked over to the woman, who by then had ended her call. I leaned in and whispered, “We have something in common.”

She looked at me a bit puzzled and I added, “We both tend to talk a bit loudly on our cell phones. It’s always getting me in trouble.”

The lady then nodded with understanding. “Thanks for the tip,” she said.

Who knows whether my cell phone intervention will result in any permanent change for the women but I have noticed during subsequent visits to the gym, that she speaks a lot softer on the phone.

Sometimes a blunt approach to a problem is best. But other times, a more gentle touch may work better. By creating a situation where I admitted a shortcoming, I made it easier for someone to change.

Ken Okel is a communications expert who uses real life broadcasting experiences to help successful organizations communicate better, reduce stress, and laugh more.

For his free newsletter and special report, 7 Communication Mistakes that are Costing You Money, go to: www.kenokel.com