‘I’m Busy…but so is Everyone else!

The Pandemic world changed many things. One of the differences I have noticed and, which has also been told to me by colleagues, is the overuse of the phrase ‘I’m Busy’.

In the dog world, there are ‘busy’ dogs. They are often driven to do a job, to herd, to keep fetching a ball, over and over again. They are unmistakable. There does not seem to be an off button with these dogs. They will leave you exhausted but usually provide you with a healthy way to exercise. So, Busy is not necessarily Bad. But it also should not be an excuse or a replacement for common courtesy.

If a client emails you or calls you, return that email or call within twenty-four (24) hours. Even if you are focused elsewhere, let them know you received their message, at a minimum. If it is a simple answer response, respond with those few words. It will make them feel wanted and make them continue to want to do business with you. If you ignore them, they likely will eventually ignore you. Most business owners cannot manage branding themselves with a bad reputation from an unresponsive communication program. So, Just Reply.

It seems as we all adjust to our new world, both personally and professionally, we may need to be periodically reminded to be kind and be courteous. We have so much to catch up on, so much change to process, so many events and activities to enjoy after two (2) years of pause. However, doing any of these at a pace where you neglect or ignore those around you who help brand you with success, is a sure way to suddenly find yourself receiving bad reviews, being talked about with not always positive statements, or worse - losing good business.

When your vendor asks where their 120 day late check is, do not make them ask multiple times with no response. It is shocking what silence says. Common courtesy is to respond the first time, and never, ever, use the excuse ‘I am busy.' It insults your audience implying they are not busy or their ‘work’ is not as important as yours.

Like the Border Collie of the canine world, you can be busy and still check in with your ‘people’. Make sure response and common courtesy does not get lost in your human world. If you can be anything, be kind AND courteous.

Be well.