The described method and system selectively provide an instructional ring tone, configurable for both message content and frequency of playback, to aid a user in answering an incoming call via a hands free telecommunications device. The instructional ring in one aspect contains a message instructing a user as to a method of answering an incoming call. This message may be set to play the first time that an incoming call is encountered, and it may be set, e.g., by a service provider advisor, to play for a certain interval, i.e., a defined number of received calls. In this manner, the initially untrained user may become trained as to proper system operation. According to another aspect, the described system and method also improve the ease of use and operation of redundant controls for HFC or hand-held cell phone operation.