As the popularity of cell phones has increased exponentially, the number of ringtones available has also proliferated explosively. There are no limits, it seems, with phones ringing to tunes as diverse as the latest pop hit and the barking of the family dog. Hi-tech recording devices and audio equipment means that there are a greater choice of ringtones than ever before, allowing cell phones to be personalized in an additional way. But are there times when certain ringtones are more suitable than others?



As with many other of the accessories we use to compliment our lifestyles, there is a time and a place for different types of ringtones. While the very variety of tones available is a wonderful way to express individuality, this same variety can be used to tailor your phone and the sound it makes to alert you to an incoming call or message to almost any situation you find yourself in.

This doesn't mean that your favorite tunes have to go - on the contrary, the different situations you find yourself in throughout your day are an ideal way to experiment with different sounds. Just as you wouldn't attend a business meeting or interview in the same outfit you'd wear to party the night away, you shouldn't enter formal situations with a raucous pop song as your ringtone. While this may not be an issue in certain situations, where conditions necessitate you switching your phone off entirely, or leaving it in silent mode, be sure to match your ringtone to the impression you wish to make.

Because whether we like it or not, we humans can be a judgmental species, and credibility can be all-important in many situations. While a novelty ringtone does not in any way mean that we are not up to performing the job we are interviewing for, it can convey a levity that is inappropriate in certain situations.

So leave the fun ringtones for when you are having fun, and experiment with your more serious side when a more professional tone is called for. Choosing a less lighthearted ringtone does not mean that you have to ditch your individuality, simply adapt your tone to your situation. Flexibility is one of the core features of creativity, so change your novelty tone and explore another side of yourself. You can always change it back later!