Calling and Messaging Etiquette: What Most People Get Wrong vs. How to Do It Right

  

In today’s fast-paced world, communication is instant, but that doesn’t mean it’s always effective. Poor calling and messaging habits can harm relationships, disrupt workflows, and even create misunderstandings. Mastering communication etiquette helps you convey messages clearly and maintain respect for others’ time and boundaries.

1. Calling Etiquette

✅ What Most People Get Wrong:

• Calling Without Prior Notice
  • Example: You call someone unexpectedly without checking if they are available.
  • Why It’s Wrong: This can interrupt their work, rest, or personal time.

✅ How to Do It Right:

• Always Ask Before Calling

  • Example: “Hey, I’d like to discuss something. Are you available for a quick call?”
  • Why It Works: This respects their schedule and ensures you have their full attention.

• Calling at Inappropriate Hours

  • Example: Calling someone late at night or early in the morning.
  • Why It’s Wrong: Unless urgent, this invades personal time and rest hours.

✅ How to Do It Right:

• Respect Time Boundaries

  • Example: Stick to calling during business hours (8 AM – 8 PM) unless otherwise agreed.

• Hanging Up Without Explanation

  • Example: Ending the call abruptly without a closing statement.
  • Why It’s Wrong: This feels dismissive and leaves the other person confused.

✅ How to Do It Right:

• End Calls Politely
  • Example: “Thanks for your time—talk soon!”
  • Why It Works: It signals the conversation is ending while maintaining warmth.

2. Messaging Etiquette

✅ What Most People Get Wrong:

• Sending Paragraph-Long Messages
  • Example: Texting a lengthy story without breaks.
  • Why It’s Wrong: This is overwhelming and harder to read.

✅ How to Do It Right:

• Be Clear and Concise

  • Example: Break long texts into short, digestible parts.
  • Why It Works: It’s easier to follow and encourages quick responses.

• Expecting Instant Replies

  • Example: Sending “???” if someone doesn’t respond immediately.
  • Why It’s Wrong: This is intrusive and shows impatience.

✅ How to Do It Right:

• Allow Time for Replies

  • Example: “No rush—reply when you can.”
  • Why It Works: This respects their time and fosters positive communication.

• Overusing Voice Notes

  • Example: Sending a 5-minute voice note without warning.
  • Why It’s Wrong: Long voice notes can be inconvenient to listen to, especially in public or work environments.

✅ How to Do It Right:

• Send Voice Notes Considerately
  • Example: “Can I send a quick voice note to explain?”
  • Why It Works: This ensures the recipient is ready and willing to listen.

3. Professional Communication Etiquette

✅ What Most People Get Wrong:

• Being Too Casual in Formal Settings
  • Example: “Hey bro, got the report?” in a work-related message.
  • Why It’s Wrong: Casual language can undermine professionalism.

✅ How to Do It Right:

• Use Polite, Clear Language

  • Example: “Hi [Name], I wanted to check if you’ve received the report. Let me know if you need anything else.”
  • Why It Works: It conveys professionalism and shows respect.

• Ignoring Grammar and Punctuation

  • Example: “ok ill send it l8r.”
  • Why It’s Wrong: Poor writing can cause confusion and appear careless.

✅ How to Do It Right:

• Proofread Before Sending
  • Example: “Okay, I’ll send it later.”
  • Why It Works: Clear communication minimizes misunderstandings.

4. Social Messaging Etiquette

✅ What Most People Get Wrong:

• Forgetting to Respond
  • Example: Leaving messages unread or unanswered.
  • Why It’s Wrong: It feels dismissive and can damage relationships.

✅ How to Do It Right:

• Acknowledge Messages

  • Example: “Hey, I saw your message—will get back to you soon.”
  • Why It Works: It shows consideration, even when you’re busy.

• Oversharing Personal Issues

  • Example: Sharing private matters without being asked.
  • Why It’s Wrong: It can make others uncomfortable or overwhelmed.

✅ How to Do It Right:

• Share Thoughtfully
  • Example: “Would you mind if I shared something personal?”
  • Why It Works: It respects their emotional bandwidth.

Final Thoughts

Effective communication is a blend of clarity, empathy, and respect. By refining your calling and messaging habits, you build stronger connections and avoid common pitfalls. Be mindful of how you interact, and your relationships—both personal and professional—will thrive.