A young gentleman called my dad, and without any introduction, he dove straight into, “Bho here mdara ,basa rekufarm richipo here,” which translates to, “What’s up? Any job vacancy at your farm?”
My dad, being the person he is, calmly asked the young man to hang up so he could call him back. I knew instantly that a lesson was coming.
When my dad called him back, he didn’t dismiss him or scold him. Instead, he kindly went through the basics of etiquette, explaining how important it is to approach people respectfully and intentionally. He told him, “I actually have a job vacancy, but it’s your approach that might make me write you off immediately.”
That moment stuck with me. So often, people lose opportunities—not because they lack the skills or the qualifications, but because of how they present themselves.
Here’s the truth: how you approach people matters. Whether it’s a phone call, an email, or a direct message, your tone, clarity, and respect can be the difference between getting the opportunity and being overlooked.
A Few Tips on Approach:
1. Start with Respect: Always begin with a polite greeting. If you’re calling someone, introduce yourself clearly and explain why you’re reaching out.
2. Be Clear and Concise: Don’t beat around the bush. Respect the other person’s time by getting straight to the point, but do so in a way that’s thoughtful and intentional.
3. Show Genuine Interest: If you’re inquiring about a job, don’t just ask if there’s a vacancy. Take the time to mention why you’re interested in the role or the company and how you could add value.
4. End with Gratitude: Whether the answer is yes or no, always thank the person for their time. Gratitude leaves a lasting impression.
5. Direct Messages Matter: When sending a message—whether on social media or through email—avoid being overly casual. A simple, polite introduction followed by your request or inquiry will always stand out.
Example of a Polished Approach:
Instead of saying:
“Hey, is there a job there?”
Try this:
“Good afternoon, my name is [Your Name]. I came across your [company/organization] and was really impressed by the work you’re doing in [specific area]. I wanted to inquire if there are any job opportunities available and if I could share my CV with you. Thank you for your time.”
Why This Matters:
The way you approach someone isn’t just about communication—it’s a reflection of who you are and how seriously you take the opportunity. A poor approach can make people question your professionalism, even if you’re the most qualified candidate.
Opportunities are out there, but they’re often missed because of something as simple as tone or presentation. Let this be a reminder to always approach with respect, clarity, and gratitude.
Because sometimes, it’s not what you’re asking—it’s how you’re asking that makes all the difference.