Cell Image: What Does Your Cell Phone Say About You?

Cell-image is rapidly becoming a facet of our everyday lives. It is almost as important as what you wear, how you act, and the type of company you keep. Everything from the style of phone you have to the ring tones you download says something about who you are. Image is important in our society and it can make or break you in the business world, so learning what your phone choice says to others is critical. This article will give you an idea of what you should consider image-wise when you are buying a phone, so that the phone will become an extension of the person you are.

Personality Types and People Types

Extrovert "“ "Hey, check out me and my new phone!"

An extrovert can be everything from outgoing to annoying. This person isn't shy, and is more likely to start a conversation when in a room of strangers. Never one to shy away from new things, the extrovert will embrace new technology. And once he has that new technology, the extrovert wants to make sure that others know he has it. Here are a few indicators that define this type of person. See how many apply to you:

Their phone is always the latest available.

Smaller is better.

Likes to leave the phone sitting out on the table, just so everyone can see it. This also means that they are expecting calls.

Depending on the person's age and job "“ the ring ranges from loud and tone-like, to loud and obnoxious (ex. any song).

Does not buy fancy leather holders, which will only add bulk to the size of the phone and cover it up.

Knows how to use all the features.

Answers every call that comes in, usually talking loudly. They want people to know they are popular.

Rich and Confident "“ "Yes the phone is new, but it's only one of many toys I own."

Since they probably bought the phone rather than signing a contract, this phone will be cutting edge new.

Purposefully vague about the phone, often leaving it lying around and forgetting it on occasions.

Hasn't got the time to learn all the functions, but is happy to let "˜hanger-on' friends play with them.

Screens calls when they come in, and always apologizes when they have to take a call.

Young and Fun "“ "It's, like, my first phone, and it's so cool!"

The younger they are, the more they talk on the phone. Odds are they have whatever free phone is being flogged that offers the best unlimited airtime package available.

These users often gather in groups, and normally one or more of them are on their phones simultaneously.

Phones are usually bigger, colorful, and accessorized.

Ring tones vary wildly, and are usually polyphonic/music based.

Overheard conversations are usually about where they currently are, when the person they are talking to is coming, who is there, and where they are going next.

Shy Introverts "“ "I only got the phone for emergencies."

Typically dress reserved and serious.

Never leave the phone in plain sight, unless they are expecting a very important call.

When they get a call, they are polite and will usually go somewhere private to have their conversation.

If they have a fancy ring tone, chances are you won't hear it because they have their phone set on vibrate when they are in public.

The phone is usually an older, bulkier model, since they do not feel the urge to upgrade every year. However, they might have a new phone if it is required for their job.

Less likely to receive calls, since they may not see the phone as a source of contact with friends.

Less likely to make calls, since they are embarrassed to be seen talking in public.

Older Cool Guys "“ "Hey! I still got it, and this phone proves it!"

Mature men know all about image, so look for a sleek, new phone, with all the fixings.

The ring will be techno-serious, with no chance of a music-based ring tone "“ they wouldn't want to give away their age by downloading a Frank Sinatra classic.

The phone might be out on display, but it could also be in a leather belt holster.

The laugh a lot when they are on the phone - this makes them less scary.

Ring Tones If you use the ring tones that come with the phone"¦

You do not have the money or technical skills to download new ones.

You don't have the time to bother getting new ring tones.

You are too serious to download something frivolous.

You use the vibrate function more than the ringer.

If you download new tones"¦

Your ring tone means something special to you, and you want people to find out what it is.

You like gadgets, and are comfortable with computers, technology and the Internet.

Song choice is critical here and will say something about your age, personality, taste in music, and what you expect from others.

* There are plenty of sites that offer free downloadable ring tones, so don't get sucked into paying the $1.50 that your cell provider charges.

Phone Types and You
If you are concerned with your image, then shy away from the free phones. These phones will only have a limited set of features, and are often on the verge of obsolescence when cellular providers offer them. For a few bucks more you can get some new features "“ like video messaging "“ that are rapidly becoming all the rage. The bad news is that all these new features are making phones a bit larger, so you may have to sacrifice toys if you are looking for a very small phone. If size and price are not issues, then the sky is the limit. Many of the new PDAs offer all the latest cell features, with portable computers thrown in. They are large, but a lot smaller than a laptop. Your best bet is to think of your phone the way you would a car. Buy what you can afford, and get the features you can't live without. That way your phone will match the reality of your lifestyle, and you aren't fumbling around with an overpriced phone you don't now how to operate.