When adversity strikes, sharp people see opportunity. Others struggle, often resorting to anger as they search for comfort.
That scenario unfolded Sunday when I received a mass email from a New Jersey real estate marketer. I have no idea how I got on the list (it was addressed "Dear Editor") but I get lots of spam so just deleted it. However, a few recipients soon "replied all" and asked to be taken off the list.
OK, I wouldn't have "replied all," but it's an understandable oversight.
That's when things went haywire. When you "reply all," everyone gets the response. People who don't grasp what's going on freak out, "replying all" to be removed from the list, only compounding the problem. Lather, rinse, repeat.
Within minutes, and after probably a half-dozen panicked replies/unsubscribe requests, a person from a Jersey web-design company chimed in, using an expletive in ALL CAPS admonishing anyone reading to stop replying to the email.
I understood his anger, but dropping an F-bomb attached to your business signature isn't too smart. Neither is adding the phrase "Actually knows what's going on" in signing off.
So, here's what umpteen people learned from this Sunday:
Here's the takeaway:
Lend a hand to someone in need. Most people genuinely do want to do the right thing so if they get themselves into trouble, spare them the embarrassment and public lecture. Whether you're in business or just a bystander, be polite in responding and offering help. It's not that hard. People notice little stuff like that, and will reward the effort with friendship, business, good word of mouth.
Call it karma, call it being a good person, call it smart business, call it whatever. But don't be that dick.