We certainly have read here on the forum, of how important communication is. Exactly, how does one define communication?
We all have different cultural backgrounds; therefore, certain words, terms and phrases may differ in different cultures. And we all have different communication styles-- so we all may define communication differently.
With me as a sitter, communication initially begins with how the HO’s listing is written. Does the listing have a welcome feel or a demanding feel? What can I glean from the photos? Unkempt / tidy? Does the listing give me enough details about the pet(s) that I would be interested in applying?
When I apply for sits, I am applying because I felt that the listings were attractive, had a welcome feel, the HO seemed friendly, and I would enjoy the pets. I will then send a personalized application. I always appreciate a HO that responds with a message of thanking me for applying, but they chose someone else. Or they will say, “thank you for applying, I am reviewing applications, can I get back to you in a day or two?” And then there are the times when I have sent an application and it was declined by the HO without a reason. While reasons/feedback is not required, it would be appreciated.
For me, communication is two-way. It is one party relaying information (communicating) and the other party receiving and responding to that information. If communication becomes one-sided, then one party will feel slighted. And sometimes messages can be misinterpreted or misunderstood.
Have you ever received a text message from someone and you felt instant annoyance or irritation? I admitteldy have. In an instant, I have created my opinion, perception, and feeling—only to have the other person say, “I apologize; I did not mean it that way.”
The meaning of text messaging can get lost. Everyone conveys and receives information differently – one person may be offended by something someone said and someone else would not. If a message sent seemed harsh or critical, the person offended should say something that could clear up any misunderstandings / misinterpretations.
Communication certainly is important and when something said or not said does not feel right, it is ok to ask for clarification.