Respond to the private messages that are sent to you. Please, respond to them. And to be clear, when we talk about private messages, we're not talking about a mention on Facebook or Twitter, an email that might have infuriated you or an intimidating message. We're talking about an email, a text message or a WhatsApp message. Even from Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn, but direct and private.
It is true, sometimes it is advisable to remain silent. But, do you know how frustrating it can be to see that someone who you took the time to write to does not respond? And even more, that person maintains public activity, having fun on social networks, while your message is forgotten? Not to mention if the other person can see a double check indicating that the message was read and completely ignored. It's not difficult to do it. A simple response. But if you still haven't found reasons to do so, I share some that will make you reflect.
1. Out of respect for the other person
This is the most important reason. If someone took the time to write you a personal message, asking how you were, and conveying a request or inquiry directed at you, whether someone you've known your whole life or seen only once, deserves a response. Even a minimal one, telling them that you cannot assist them or are not interested in their proposal. But out of simple respect and to generate empathy, you should respond.
2. Out of gratitude
If a message was directed at you, and not someone else, it's because they chose you for something you do or know. This is recognition. Sometimes implicit, others explicit, but it's a form of acknowledgement. And a response is a way to express gratitude for that recognition.
3. For your reputation
Do you want to be known as the person who does not respond to messages? The person who is impossible to contact? The one who doesn't listen to people? Would you like someone to say about you: "No, better not to contact him, he won't respond anyway"? If your reputation is valuable, not responding messages is an excellent way to lose it. So for your own interest, it's better to respond.
4. Direct messages are not social networks
For several years, much of our communication has been through social networks and a lot of it is public. Many people do not respond to public messages simply because they do not want to share them with people they do not know. However, a private message has another meaning. We're not talking about newsletters trying to sell something, but a personal message for you. Private communication still has a different value.
5. You never know when you will need the other person
Perhaps at that moment you do not see a benefit in responding to the message. Have you thought about if in the future you will need a favor from the other person? Surely today it doesn't occur to you, but you never know if in 1 or 2 years, it will be you who needs to get a response that only the other person can give you.
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Leer "Motivos por los que deberías responder cada mensaje" en Español