Are you considered a jerk for not returning someone’s message?

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In the age of digital communication and instant messaging, facebook, e-mail, text messaging, black berry messenger, iphone ping etc. people have developed a low tolerance for not replying to messages. When you send a message to someone it is expected that they receive a response in a respectable amount of time.

Now if you do not return a person’s message, people automatically think that you didn’t feel like replying. I would like to drive the point home that if someone doesn’t reply to your e-mail right away or at all, you shouldn’t take offence.

Here are 5 reasons why a person isn’t able to return a call, message or any line of communication right away:

1. They have a  deadline to meet and cannot be bothered.
2. They are currently dealing with a higher priority issue and need to attend to it before  it turns into  something bigger.
3. They’re not sure how to respond to the message yet and need time to develop a response.
4. They didn’t get the message right away. It could possibly mean that they did reply as fast as possible based on when they received the  message.
5. They have turned their device, phone off or they have run out of battery.

I wouldn’t be too worried if someone doesn’t reply to your message right away. Have an understanding of the other person’s life and put yourself in their shoes. I’m sure they will get to your message. Just have patience.  People should not be considered jerks for not returning their messages. A little follow up never hurt anyone.

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# Linked to 8 February 2010 in Articles by Pat Dryburgh

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