CONNECT WITH RESPECT: Basic etiquette for polite conversations
Communication made through our smartphones has never been this significant due to the COVID-19 health crisis. Internet and technology were more widely utilized than ever to make up for the actual connection under compromise considering our situation.
What is alarming, however, is how people seem to overlook the practice of good manners behind our screens. When something happens widespread, it does not mean it is right. And not because you are unaware it is wrong, means you are excused.
Ethical practices are not a choice; it is a must for us humans. And when conversing with people virtual, the same etiquettes we demand in person should as well be applied.
Etiquettes to be a polite sender
The process of communication starts with a sender intending to deliver a message to the receiver. Hence, the one planning to initiate the conversation is also the one to head start a kind interaction. Below are your guides to do so:
1. When texting, be direct with your intention
Unless you are speaking with a close friend that knows you so well, avoid messaging with vague objectives. It can trigger anxiety, something you can’t just make up for.
2. When planning to make a call, text first
Calling without prior notice simply can alarm or disturb someone. For anyone, every time is not a guaranteed good time to entertain interactions, so be responsible.
3. Never leave your receiver hanging
While certain situations can happen, that should not be a reason to practice suspending people. Responding should be a mutual responsibility for both parties in the communication process.
4. As a first sender, be the last sender too
It is completely disrespectful to approach someone then ignore them after they reply. You needed them, so respect the effort they exerted to respond.
5. When ending conversations, end them properly
Not just replying is an inappropriate way to finish talking to someone. Be clear that you have to go, or you have no intention to prolong the conversation for them to understand.
Etiquettes to be a polite receiver
Communication can only happen with a response from the receiver to the sender. To maintain a mutually good interaction process, receivers should also have proper manners as much as the sender. The following can help you your way:
1. Inform your sender of the situation you are in
When we receive messages and are unable to get back immediately, the best way is to always tell our sender. Giving a heads up is better than no assurance at all.
2. Apologize for belated replies
While feeling sorry should not be imposed, kindness starts with choosing to be courteous. Doing this can help you establish good relationships.
3. When responding, be straightforward
Rather than insist on conversing when you are not in the mood, choose to state your case instead. It’s also for your peace and not just the receiver’s, so be honest with anything.
4. Avoid inboxing sender or leaving them on read
Of course, responding in line with convenience is our option to make. However, it is also a proper disposition to get back to people hoping for our response.
5. Being grateful is a great talk-ender
People communicate when they need you, or you need something with them. Either way, it’s something to thank for. More reason to flex your gratitude!
Core etiquette: Connect with respect
This is not everything. Some ethical practice need not be presented, because it plainly should be given. While it’s true that in the end, we have our preferences, it only makes us selfish to not be considerate. And that’s not how the world should work!
Furthermore, attaining self-comfort has its boundaries especially since we live to coexist. In most aspects including communication, politeness is basic human decency.
When one prefers the other hand, it does not make them cool, it makes them insolent.
Renzo is an introvert who prefers to do things at his own pace. Unlike most writers, he reads lazily. Watching Korean dramas at night is his constant source of comfort. Although oftentimes commended for being outspoken, he speaks better through writing than with his words.