What to Say to Someone Blasting Their Phone in Public
Their phone is loud. Your request doesn’t have to be.
When someone's phone is blasting loudly in public, it can be irritating. According to communication coach Sammie Walker Herrera, you may find yourself thinking, "I listen to all kinds of music, but not your music." However, confronting the person immediately may not be the best approach. Etiquette coach Nicole Del Valle Rose suggests moving away if possible, which is often the most polite solution.
Another strategy is to focus on the sound rather than the person. Avoid making demands or accusations, as this can make the person defensive. Instead, you could ask what they're listening to and express your need for quiet. Asking for headphones or for them to lower the volume shows you're trying to find a solution together. Keep your request brief and polite, such as "Would you mind using headphones?" or "Would you mind turning it down?"
Remember, most people will be willing to comply if asked respectfully. If the person refuses or becomes agitated, it's best to walk away and seek help from staff if necessary. The key is to communicate your needs respectfully while respecting the other person's dignity.
Written by urgent.news from Time's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
