Professional Courtesy and Communication

In today's fast paced world most people are constantly pressed for time. Communication is shifting from face to face meetings and phone calls to text messages and e-mail. Given the fact you face a constant barrage of electronic messages on a daily basis, it is hard to promptly respond to everyone as fast as you would like.

You probably prioritize your messages and respond accordingly. This system makes the most sense as you try and clear up issues that require immediate attention. What do you do with the rest? If you don't have some sort of system in place to address all your messages, I guarantee some secondary issues will fall through the cracks. What is important to one person isn't always important to someone else. I send countless e-mails out every week that are never responded to. Obviously they aren't important or relevant to the person I sent them to. Professional courtesy doesn't allow me the same luxury. I respond to every e-mail I receive from some I know, whether it is a good friend or a casual business acquaintance. If they took the time to reach out to me, the least I can do is return the favor.

There will never be enough time to do everything you want to do on any given day. Once you accept this fact your life instantly becomes easier. Start taking the time to respond to everyone who deserves one. If it's a pesky salesman, simply tell him no you are not interested. At least they'll know you read their message. If it's an old friend, send them a quick reply. They will feel better you remembered who they were. If it is an invitation, RSVP. If it is someone you are not sure who it is, respond anyway. It may be a business opportunity in the making.

Faceless communication is a way of life. Start to treat it as if the person who initiated the contact was sitting right in front of you. Take the time to respond whether it is good, bad, or indifferent. It is just a matter of professional courtesy.