Pet Peeve

Today's post isn't going to be about the new mapping; that will come later this week. For now, what I wanted to share is a little pet peeve of mine.

Since the Internet came along, you've probably filled out a lot of forms and applications online for whatever purpose (applying for credit, replying to a job posting, and just about everything else). Ever notice the asterisks (*) next to the fields where you put in your name, address, and contact information? These asterisks indicate that those fields are required, and thus cannot be left blank.

Now many of these online forms have an asterisk next to a phone number. Although I have a phone number, I only use it for texting not voice. So my first inclination would be to leave it blank, but they wouldn't process the form unless I put in a phone number. This frays on my nerves, especially when they don't ask for an email address on the form.

So I just put in my cell number, knowing full well that they won't be able to reach me if they call. Whenever there's a chance, I make sure that they know I prefer email. Otherwise I just let them figure it out.