Listening to people talk about being shy and how it is difficult to establish a conversation with someone sounds very alien to me. I mean no disrespect, I honestly enjoy connecting with people so much it feels almost inconceivable not to use any opportunity to do so. At the same time, I am constantly surprised when some individuals appreciate to be acknowledged when most people interact with them as if they were invisible. It is always an honor when people contact me through calls, messages, or in person who remember me from somewhere or because someone told them about me. It is good to know that approaching people and giving them the value as human they deserve is rewarded and highly regarded.
I believe it comes down to differences in personalities in most cases, but sometimes we do not take a moment to acknowledge the people around us, or simply certain social behaviors have been forgotten. Yes, people is different but some things are common sense and an understanding of what is socially acceptable behavior. Eye contact, for example, is almost a myth in our society nowadays. A “good morning”, a simple “hello”, or a casual “how are you?” is not going to kill you. On the other hand, replying to these salutations is also a simple sign of education, manners, and respect, and again, it is not going to kill you either.
Online relationships are not so different from face-to-face relationships. Similarly is with networking and business relationships. It is important to maintain a good attitude towards others. People can fake being ‘nice’ when it comes to business but there is a better way. To avoid the need impulse or need to be fake and find yourself with a falling mask it is important to be yourself. I am not saying that everyone should be the light of the party or the talkative person, but we all can show manners. Manners can take you a long way.
Helen Bruce
Dr Ivan Tirado