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Technology Etiquette: iPods, Buds in or Out?

11 Aug 2010 By: Diane Gottsman

Look in almost any direction and you are sure to spot people going through life with colorful wires dangling from their ears.  No, it’s not the latest fad in jewelry.  It is rather what has become the norm for many music enthusiasts;  iPods.  Everyone from students to doctors can be found wearing ear buds while conducting their daily routines.   Keep in mind there is an appropriate time and place for their use.

While some say that music enhances their creativity, in an office setting when you are approached, take both (not one) ear buds out to show the person that he or she has your full attention.  If you are in sales, never approach your customer wearing only one ear bud while asking if you may be of assistance.  A customer wants to feel that you are completely engaged.  On the road, runners are often distracted by their iPod and cannot hear cars or emergency vehicles.  Bus drivers and train conductors, or those using heavy equipment can also be easily distracted by their iPods, with ear buds firmly in place.  Is it really worth the risk?  Finally, if your neighbor can hear your music, it’s too loud!

When the “buds” (ear buds) should be out:

  • When eating with friends or clients
  • At a church service, funeral, or wedding ceremony
  • At the beauty shop, when getting your hair washed, cut or colored
  • At the doctor’s office during your appointment
  • Jogging on the street  (it is dangerous)
  • When someone approaches you to speak (both buds must come out)
  • During class or a business presentation
  • Any customer related field, (selling cars, working retail, waiting tables)

When the “buds” can stay in:

  • When taking public transportation (no singing, drumming or dancing in your seat)
  • In a casual office environment with the prior consent of your boss
  • While exercising at the gym
  • Anytime you are alone and not in a position to offend of hurt another person’s feelings

As with everything else, good judgment and a little common sense must always prevail.

For more tips, watch iPod Etiquette on WOAI Channel 4 San Antonio Living.

Best,

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Diane Gottsman

Diane Gottsman is a national etiquette expert and modern manners professional, sought out industry leader, television personality, accomplished speaker, Huffington Post blogger, author, and the owner of The Protocol School of Texas, a company specializing in executive leadership and etiquette training. Diane is routinely quoted in national and international media including The New York Times, The BBC, CNN, Bloomberg Business Week, Kiplinger, Huffington Post Canada, U.S. News and World Report, and Forbes. She is the resident etiquette expert for two popular morning talk shows, SA Living and Good Day Austin. She has been seen on The TODAY Show, HLN Headline News, WGN Chicago, and CBS Sunday Morning. Her clients range from university students to Fortune 500 companies and her workshops cover topics ranging from tattoos in the workplace to technology at the dinner table and the proper use of social media.