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Mobile phone usage is getting out of control. I'm talking about the loud, boorish attitude that has seemingly pervaded all of the mobile phone-carrying society. The irritating ring tones and the incessant yakking spare nothing; not even meetings, funerals, and job interviews. And I'm not kidding about this. A lot of people can attest to this sad fact. Executives, salesmen, doctors, lawyers, and priests know what I'm talking about.

From avenues to movie theaters, from classrooms to conference rooms, from diners to churches, rude cell phone users can victimize you. They practically forget basic 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 speaker who was doing a presentation. When his cell phone rang, he just stopped right there and answered it! This is absolutely ridiculous, and needs to be stopped right now.

In a recent poll, majority of Americans agree that carrying out loud conversations in public is the worst habit of cell phone users. In addition, people get victimized by rude cell phone users at least once a day. But let us be clear on one thing. Cell phones are not to blame for this one. People are. I think it's the right time to seriously think about proper cell phone manners. Here are some dos and don'ts.

Don't take a personal call using your cell phonesin 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.

Do not subject others to your phone conversations. We do not need to know the humdrum details about your life. People around you should have the luxury of not hearing your chitchat. And remember to keep all conversations short and simple.

Do not talk on your phone inside auditoriums, elevators, libraries, churches, memorial parks, infirmaries, restaurants, 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 use those irritating ring tones that distract others and destroy eardrums. Do we really have to listen to this nonsense? Grow up! Stop trying to multi-task with your phone. Stop making calls while buying groceries, jogging, waiting in line or doing other personal business. And one more thing. Tell everyone that you're now using improved cell phone etiquette, and encourage them to do the same. It's very important.

Technology and good manners can belong. The same thing happened with the Internet, when email etiquette had to be observed. 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.

Azlan Irda is the co-founder of http://www.AgeComputer.com, your cell phone superstore. Visit our website to find all the cellular phones and accessories you will ever need.