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More and more people are forgetting about proper cell phone manners. I'm talking about the loud, rude attitude that has seemingly pervaded all of the mobile phone-carrying society. The irritating ring tones and the incessant yakking spare nothing; not even weddings, eulogies, and job interviews. You think I'm kidding? Just ask a lot of salesmen, executives, doctors, lawyers, and practically anybody. They'll know what I'm talking about.

From avenues to theaters, from classrooms to boardrooms, from restaurants to churches, boorish cell phone users are anywhere. They practically forget the most basic of courtesies. I know a lot, and I mean a lot, of people who have quite a few stories to tell about this attitude. One of my favorites is about a panel member who was doing a demonstration. His cell phone rang and he immediately stopped and answered his phone! This is absolutely ridiculous, and we need to put a stop to it.

In a recent poll, majority of Americans agree that the worst habit of cell phone users is carrying out loud conversations in public. In addition, people get victimized by loutish cell phone users at least once a day. But let me make one thing perfectly clear. Cell phones are not to blame for this one. People are. Cell phone sales are rising. So are the sound level and the rudeness. Mobile technology is being abused all around us. It's time to take a stand against it. Here are some dos and don'ts.

Don't take a personal call using your mobile phonein the middle of a business meeting. This rule also includes meetings with co-workers or subordinates, and job interviews. You'll be surprised to know how many job applicants flunk this one.

Remember to keep at least 10-feet away from anyone during a cell phone conversation. We don't want to know about the intimate details of your life, really. Inform all your callers that you're talking on a cellular phone, so they'll know to expect distractions or disconnections. And keep all conversations short and to the point.

Never hold a phone conversation inside theaters, elevators, libraries, churches, cemeteries, infirmaries, diners, galleries, or any other enclosed public spaces. And also, never ever hold an intimate phone conversation while in public. If you really have to, get an earpiece, so that you can control the volume of your voice.

Don't set your ringing tone to play the Bee Gees every time someone calls you. There are a lot of better ring tones. Grow up! Also, forget about multi-tasking with a cell phone. Avoid making calls while buying groceries, walking the dog, waiting in line or doing other personal business. And one more thing. Tell everyone that you're now using improved cell phone etiquette, and ask them to do the same. It's very important.

Technology and manners can co-exist. Just ask the millions of Internet users, who've adopted the rules for email etiquette. You can always use the vibrate function, use voice mail, or go to a secluded area before making a call. All it takes is a little bit of consideration.