(Warning: I'm climbing on my soapbox for this post.)
I am a communications major so word choice is something I tend to pay attention to. To me words are just as important as tone, it is not necessarily what you say but how you say it. Now, mind you, I'm not one of those that believes you have to use big words to communicate your thoughts, but I would prefer people start paying more attention to what their words communicate about them.
Lately, I've become purely disgusted with some of the word choices of people. Whether on Facebook or in a meeting or just in general conversation, I'm tired of people using words like "sucks", "pissed" and the like in everyday conversation and in professional settings no less. Yes, perhaps I'm old school at a ripe 31 years of age, but when did manners fly out the door?
There are a thousand words that can be used to communicate the same thoughts and feelings of the words in quotes above and allow the speaker to be perceived in a much more positive and respected manner. In case you're wondering, it is not okay to talk to your boss, co-workers or work associates like you would talk with your best friend. Some language is much too casual to be utilized in a work conversation or in your Facebook status (yes I went there).
I know Facebook is meant for you to interact with friends and contacts in a casual and relaxed setting, but keep in mind that when you post a status update you are sharing with the masses not just your best friend. Whether you accept it or not, people draw conclusions about you and make assumptions based on your posts. Make sure you are sharing your life with others in a way that makes others view you as smart, sensible, and respectable.
The words you choose to use communicates volumes. If you are one who regularly uses these words, I would encourage you to find some replacement words at least for when you are in a professional setting and posting for the entire world to see on Facebook.
Think of it in these terms, if you wouldn't use the words in a job interview then why use them in your open and public conversations?
Now that I've got that off my chest, I'll climb down off my soapbox.
I'd love to hear your thoughts on this matter. Am I the only one who feels this way?
At some point and time we've all experienced the same emotions, whether a single twenty something, a new mother, or a seasoned professional there have been moments in our lives when we questioned our abilities, our purpose, and our sanity. This blog is dedicated to helping women connect, find resources, and learn from the experiences of others. We'll touch on a variety of topics, so check in often and share your experiences with us too.
You are not alone in your feelings and I think you made your point clear in a very professional manner. You are a very good role model for any one to follow. I am proud to have you as a co-worker and a friend.
ReplyDeleteWell said, my dear friend, well said. There are plenty of times I've had to refrain myself from posting such sentiments on Facebook, remembering those words may follow me forever, and forever is a long, long time. It's easy to forget that the world we live in is pretty much a digital record of everything we "say" and can be easily dug up and thrown in our face at the most inopportune moment. Thank you for saying what so many needed to hear!
ReplyDeleteThank you ladies for confirming I am not alone on this issue.
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