Staff phrasing guide

Awkward enforcement undermines adoption. The placard makes the norm visible; staff only need to point to it, once, in a friendly way. Here is language that works.

What to say

“Hi — quick thing — we're a 4ᵗʰ Place, which means calls and videos with headphones, or outside if that's easier. Thanks.”

“Hey — we keep audio off speakers here. There's a sign by the door.”

“Sorry to interrupt — would you mind using headphones or stepping outside for that?”

How to handle it

• Point to the placard once. It carries the message so you don't have to.
• Don't debate the standard, lecture, or escalate beyond a polite first ask.
• If a patron declines, use your normal hospitality judgment. The standard asks for nothing more.

The standard governs discretionary private audio, not necessary communication — accessibility, emergencies, brief exchanges, and staff work are always fine.