Some common and accepted rituals from a few years ago are no longer regular practice. For example, in Japan, it has always been considered a sign of respect to exchange business cards precisely, with bowing, a specific way to hold and hand the card over with formality. It was important for any business relationship. In China, a gift may be appropriate, and in many countries, there is a dress code, and people sitting in a room at a table and arriving and leaving a room were all critical.
The digital age has forced us to reassess rituals, especially today when far more meetings are remote, and the need for face-to-face meetings is of less importance. How many people still have a paper business card? In a remote meeting, who is at the head of the table?
In a time where rituals are shifting, there is likely an even greater need for a sense of etiquette to emphasize a level of respect. Have we taken the time to reassess them? Is it appropriate that we are on a Zoom and choose to keep our camera off? It may be a small thing, but then again, either you are in a meeting, or you are not. In our daily communication, when we are in conversation with others, do we merely not respond to them or not permit them to speak. Likely not, yet in various digital communication, ‘ghosting’ others is now almost standard play.
Regardless of the times, respect is still an accepted norm, not only for others but also for ourselves. While we may consider certain elements just dated rituals, do features such as decency ever date.
May kindness and consideration prevail regardless of technology.
