Bluetooth Headset Gadget Etiquette

Gadgets galore are becoming a mainstay of office culture, with hundreds of business professionals and casual telephone users adapting their daily habits into almost routine dependencies. For those without the added responsibility of a Bluetooth headset, PDA, or other hands-free wireless device, chances are they’re missing out on some time-saving conveniences available. Today’s tech-savvy business communities and offices are creating trends and general working habits by using Bluetooth headsets in particular, minimizing cell phone connectivity issues, and adorning the familiar earphone piece between meetings and desk time. However effective the Bluetooth gadgets may be in your office, there is still much to be learned from the outward appearance.

‘Never judge a book by its cover’ is a cliché that can provide some insight into the world of Bluetooth headset wearers. Unlike a cell phone or other visible phone-in-hand device, the headset is conspicuously sitting atop the users ear on one side of their head; to the casual onlooker, it often goes unnoticed. Be forewarned of ‘are you talking to me?’-type looks, ‘I think he’s talking to himself’, and other odd nuances and habits that make it difficult to discern if the headset-dependent is actually trying to have a conversation or speaking directly to onlookers or staff members around them.

To the non-Bluetooth user, Saying ‘Good morning’ isn’t as easy as it used to be. If the headset user has his/her head turned away from you, be ready for the standard Bluetooth ignorance trap. When you’re ignored, don’t take it personally; it’s likely that the user didn’t even notice you. Small talk and casual greetings are more difficult than ever without a simultaneous indication of your presence. Try waving, pointing to yourself with a ‘hello, I’m here standing in front of you’ gesture, or as a last resort, walking up and tapping them on the shoulder.