Speakerphone Etiquette

One thing that bothers me is people that call that have their phone on speaker. I do not know who is in the room with the person calling. I think it is rude. Can I say something? Some people have the volume up and it affects other people working in the area. I don't want other people to hear my end of the conversation and it is distracting to those people. What do you say?

Speakerphones are a convenient and cost-effective way to bring people together. Speakerphones also have the benefit of hands-free operation that enables the performance of other physical activities pertinent to the discussion, such as taking notes or looking at relevant paperwork and online information. Speakerphones are a great tool for communication via the telephone — as long as they're used with some common sense and common courtesy.

Obtain consent: Using a speakerphone affects the privacy of a conversation so it's only common courtesy to ask the other person's permission to have what they say be heard by others — before they say something they may regret. Tell them who else can hear the conversation and whether they will participate. Even when no one else is within earshot, it can become a matter of trust when the person is alerted that they're on speakerphone and you haven't shared that up front.

Introduce everyone: If possible, allow each person to introduce himself or herself to help the listeners match a name to a voice. When people are unfamiliar with one another, it can also be helpful for parties to identify themselves before speaking — "this is Mary and I'm wondering…."

Courtesy for all: Show consideration for anyone who is at hand. Using your speakerphone can be a distraction to those around you and even to the person on the other end who may be able to hear phones ringing or people talking. If you need to use speakerphone, do so in an office or a conference room where the "noise" won't disturb others.

Speak up: If you suspect that you're on speakerphone, politely ask: "It sounds like you're using speakerphone as I hear papers rustling." Ask who else is supposed to be in on the conversation and who is simply within earshot. If you'd prefer that a speakerphone not be used, speak up, making sure to say why. If necessary, set a different time or place for the conversation when it can be private.

When it comes to speakerphones, a little common sense and common courtesy go a long way.