Become A Professional: Five Simple Tips To Make Your Used Cell Phone Or Used Blackberry Positively Work For You

You have finally graduated from college and have been hired for an entry-level position at a Fortune 500 company. Maybe you've decided to own your own business. You may believe that "dress for success" stops at what you wear but it actually resonates with everything about you. The way you speak or carry yourself matters so it's important that you show the "best you possible" and get established in the professional field. If you are looking for a phone that will help you along the way, consider getting a used Blackberry; it's what the majority of the professionals use. Here are some tips to help you to look more like a professional with your used cell phone.

Tip 1 - Make It Personal On Your Voice Mail

When you make your voice mail personal, you show your clients, co-workers, bosses, potential clients, etc. how confident you are. Don't go with your used Verizon phones or Blackberry pre-recorded system since it makes people think that your work ethic isn't very strong or worth getting involved with. Now when you personalize your message, make sure to be strong and clear; talk slow so that your listeners can hear all your words. Above all else, do not use cuss words.

Tip 2 – Change Ringtones

People love to hear the latest music but it's very unprofessional to have it in an office or meeting where all can hear it. Instead of using downloaded rock tunes or offensive cartoon bits, consider using the phone's pre-recorded ringtones. By choosing these, you won't perturb anyone with your ringtone in the middle of a call, meeting, etc.

Tip 3 – Delete Ring-Back Tones

Many phones come equipped with ring-back tones; no matter what service you are with, these should be deleted. It's fine for family members and friends but certainly not for clients, present and future. These tones are considered very annoying and most unprofessional.

Tip 4 – Spruce Up Your Phone's Look

While you may think it's stupid, you should fix up the way your phone looks. You want to be taken seriously but no one is going to be able to if you have red flower stickers or other decorations on your refurbished cell phone and/or used blackberry. You never know when you may accidentally leave it out or need to show your clients something.

Tip 5 – Shut It Off

Whenever you're at work or you meet a prospective client, take the time to place your phone on vibrate or silent. This lets people know that you respect the time they have together. If you've forgotten this step, apologize quickly and hurriedly turn off the ringer and shut off the phone. Now if you need to leave it on, don't answer your phone. Of course, if you have an emergency, most clients, future and present, will understand.  You should never walk away from your client to start a conversation on your phone.

It's important that you appear as professional as possible in every aspect of your life. Remember that the world we live in is impressionable and you certainly don't want anyone to get a bad impression of you just because your phone lacked professionalism. By following the five tips above, you're on your way to building your professional reputation.