No cell phones, please, say businesses

Despite the prevalent attitude that cell phones can be used any time, any place -- public bathrooms included -- there's a competing ethos at play: Put. It. Down.

Businesses and organizations are increasingly posting signs asking people to stop using them during transactions -- at order counters, and in banks, doctor's offices, coffee shops and other places where crowds gather.

A few years ago, Zatz A Better Bagel in West Seattle posted this sign at its counter after Bluetooth headsets became popular: "Please be courteous to our staff and fellow customers. No cell phones."

"When there's 15 people in line and you're on the phone talking with someone and we're asking whether you want a bagel toasted or with cream cheese, it can add five minutes on for the other customers," employee Tuesday Velasco said.

Those who ignore the sign are told, "We'll be right with you as soon as you're ready," manager Jason Kinch said.

And, that -- skipping to the next person in line until the cell phone user puts down his or her phone -- is becoming a common approach, even at businesses without posted signs.

Much of the trend is driven by customer complaints about loud cell-phone blatherers, along with wait times in line growing while phoners try to multitask. Counter staffers and others have gotten used to hearing, "Oh, hold on a minute. I have to take this call."
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LOL!  You should have kicked his ass Walfredo style!

 

I was sooo hungry that day (the low blood sugar probably didn't help the surliness).  I decided that if I fought him, it might be quite a while before I got any food into my system, and it would be tacky to ask him to wait until I finish my sandwich before I kick his ass.  I need to start carrying around asskicking rainchecks to hand out.

Those who ignore the sign are told, "We'll be right with you as soon as you're ready," manager Jason Kinch said.

And, that -- skipping to the next person in line until the cell phone user puts down his or her phone -- is becoming a common approach, even at businesses without posted signs.