The way people use their phones during conversations and professional engagements can say a lot about their respect for others.
Etiquette expert Ms Nancy says observing basic phone etiquette is essential to maintaining respectful personal and professional relationships.
Speaking on TV3’s The Afternoon Show on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, during a discussion on the dos and don’ts of everyday phone use, Ms Nancy advised people to introduce themselves properly when making calls, particularly when contacting someone for the first time.
She cautioned against calling someone and immediately asking, “Do you know who you are speaking to?”, describing the approach as inappropriate and discourteous.
Instead, she encouraged callers to state their names, explain how they obtained the contact and politely ask whether it is a convenient time to talk.
Ms Nancy also advised people against repeatedly calling someone who fails to answer, suggesting that callers wait a few minutes before trying again and allow the recipient to return the call at their convenience.
On professional communication, she recommended that calls be made after 9am and before 6pm, giving people time to settle into work and respecting their personal time after working hours.
“After 6pm, if you are a boss, unless it’s an emergency, don’t be calling your subordinates,” she stressed.
She further urged people to put their phones away and give others their undivided attention during face-to-face conversations, noting that continuing to engage with a phone while someone is speaking can come across as disrespectful.
According to her, people should put down their phones and remove their earphones when approached, so the person speaking knows they have their attention.
