I’m not the sort of person usually seen with a headset, and I get lots of looks when I wear one in public, but it’s better than rummaging through my purse to answer a call. Perhaps people think I’m in the Secret Service. Cool. Where’s Obama?
In doing a bit of reasearch for the article, I was struck by the negativity some people feel toward this particular technology. It boiled down to “showing off” and “causing confusion.” I’ll address the “confusion” bit.
I would never look directly at a stranger while using a SmartTalk Bluetooth Headset. I would try to move to a private spot, but failing at that, I would at least look down. I would also give a “tell.” Those who follow poker understand “tells.” They’re the unconscious signals players give in response to their cards. A touch of the nose, a push of the glasses, a swipe of an eyebrow; all “tells.” I consciously touch my ear to indicate the presence of the headset. My bent arm also creates a small personal space. Everyone knows I’m having a private conversation. They can listen or not, but at least they don’t think I’m a dillweed. (more…)