Q. Should I answer my mobile phone at a party?

• A. Only if you really must – like if you’re waiting on an important work call or if the babysitter rings. Otherwise, it’s polite to leave your phone in your handbag or pocket and let it go to voicemail during the party. Answering your phone at a social event detaches you from the party group, and can also give the impression that you’re not having the best time. It can be insulting to your host and other guests if you’re gossiping away to a friend in the corner instead of joining in the conversation with everyone else. So detach from the mobile, devote yourself to the gathering you are actually attending, and if you need to make a call yourself, step outside and make it brief.