There are certain behaviors in communication and service interactions that can leave a negative impression. While they may seem minor, these actions reflect a lack of respect for others’ time, boundaries, and needs. Here are some examples that illustrate the importance of consideration, professionalism, and effective communication:
* *The “Hello Sir” Gambit:* When you send a message with just “Hello Sir” and wait for a response before flooding the conversation with requests, it creates unnecessary back-and-forth. Why not state your request fully in the initial message? This saves time and avoids the feeling of manipulation.
*Lesson:* Be clear and direct in communication. It shows respect for the other person’s time and encourages efficiency.
* *The “I’ve Been Calling You” Exaggeration:* You call once, and when it’s missed, your follow-up begins with, “I’ve been calling you since.” This creates the impression that you’ve been ignored, even when your first call was made just minutes earlier. Consider the possibility that the person may have been busy or unable to answer.
*Lesson:* Patience is key. Communicate calmly and give the benefit of the doubt, especially when the call wasn’t scheduled.
* *The Last-Minute Invitation:* At an event, the first thing you say is, “It’s great you’re here. I was going to invite you to another event next weekend.” If the person declines due to prior plans, don’t be disappointed; last-minute invitations can be difficult to accommodate.
*Lesson:* Respect people’s time and commitments. Invitations should be made in advance, with consideration for the recipient’s schedule.
* *The Secretive Visit:* You plan to visit someone but refuse to share the exact date due to personal beliefs about not revealing travel plans. Yet, you still expect them to be available when you arrive unannounced.
*Lesson:* Communication is essential. Respect others’ time by being clear about your plans. Ambiguity leads to inconvenience and frustration.
* *The Event Photographer Jostle:* If you invite someone to an event, they shouldn’t have to fight for your attention or for a simple photograph with you. If their presence is important, make them feel welcomed and appreciated.
*Lesson:* Show hospitality and respect to your guests. Ensure they feel valued and not neglected.
* *Late-Night Calls:* Making a late-night call and beginning with, “I hope it’s not too late,” puts the recipient in a difficult position. If it’s late, it’s best to recognize that and either send a message or call at a more appropriate time.
*Lesson:* Respect boundaries and personal time. Be mindful of when you reach out, as not everyone may be available or comfortable taking calls late at night.
* *The Text Check-Up:* Sending a text and immediately following up with a call to ask if it was received is unnecessary. Allow the recipient time to respond.
*Lesson:* Trust that the message was received and give people time to reply. Constant follow-ups can come across as impatient or intrusive.
* *Expecting Financial Support Without Consideration:* Asking for financial support based on your own expectations, without considering the other person’s affordability or willingness, can come across as presumptive and inconsiderate.
*Lesson:* Be thoughtful about others’ capacity to help. Support should be requested with respect for the giver’s financial situation and willingness.
* *Misusing Financial Assistance:* Receiving financial help and misusing it without remorse or accountability shows a lack of gratitude and responsibility.
*Lesson:* Be accountable and respectful of the support you receive. Properly managing assistance shows appreciation and builds trust.
* *Mistaking Simplicity for Stupidity:* When someone’s simplicity and accessibility are taken for granted or misinterpreted as weakness, it reflects poorly on the person making such judgments.
*Lesson:* Simplicity and humility should never be mistaken for naivety. Respect those who are approachable and generous with their time.
* *The Delayed Professional:* As a professional, when a client has paid for a service and is awaiting delivery, it is unacceptable to let the project drag on for weeks without explanation or updates.
*Lesson:* Professionalism demands timeliness and communication. Keeping clients informed of any delays is crucial for maintaining trust and respect in business.
* *The Condescending Service Provider:* When offering a service, speaking to a customer as though you’re doing them a favor, especially in a harsh or condescending manner, drives away business and damages your reputation.
*Lesson:* Respect and humility are cornerstones of customer service. Treat every client with dignity, regardless of the nature of the service being provided.
* *Unanswered Messages:* Whether it’s an email, phone message, or WhatsApp inquiry, failing to acknowledge or respond leaves others feeling ignored and undervalued.
*Lesson:* Timely acknowledgment of communication shows consideration. Even a brief response can go a long way in building rapport and respect.
In all these scenarios, the central message revolves around consideration, respect, and accountability. Whether in personal interactions or professional dealings, how you communicate and handle others’ needs reflects your character. Thoughtfulness, patience, and humility go a long way in creating positive and lasting relationships.
NB: Johnson Babalola, a Canada based lawyer, leadership consultant and corporate emcee, is a public affairs analyst.
