“New Media Manners” by Eldora

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“New Media Manners” by Eldora

I agree that new media has been taking too much of our time and blurring our visions and behaviours of what is rude and what is acceptable. We do not take effort to mind our manners as we are so accustomed to social media. Instead, we expect others to excuse us for our unintentional rude actions as a result of social media. 

There are limits to what we can convey to others through social media. I feel that sensitive issues such as declaring your love, breaking up or starting an argument, should be done face-to-face. This reflects the responsibility and sincerity one has in delivering a clearer message. I believe that it is acceptable to use social media for other less sensitive issues, such as sending a text message to inform others that we will be late, as long as we do not misuse its convenience. 

While we are out with friends, updating our Facebook or Twitter and replying text messages once in a while are still acceptable, but if done frequently, we will make others feel neglected and disrespected which may lead to unhappy gatherings. The purpose of meeting up with friends is to spend quality time with each other thus the usage of social media should be done at home. We should put ourselves in others’ shoes, and treat them as how we would like to be treated that is, with respect.

 I have heard of experience from my friend that she had lunch gathering without any conversations because everyone was too engrossed with what is in their mobile devices. Just imagine the awkward atmosphere! I think that these could be prevented if everyone compromises with each other and agree that no use of mobile devices is allowed when having meal. Actually, that is what my family and I practiced at home. We leave our phones out of reach when having meals and promise not to answer any incoming calls until we are done with our meal. I feel that this is the start of a good habit. 

I believe it is fine being friends with our bosses on Facebook but there has to be a clear boundary between our work and personal life. It is unacceptable for any boss to send a text message to their employees late at night as they should respect their employees’ personal time. It is common knowledge that mobile phones should not be used during meetings as it will disrupt the meeting flow and will affect everyone’s attention. Therefore, these are simple manners we should abide to. 

New media has become quite a bad influence for us and I think it is because of habit and peer pressure. Teenagers especially have the most tendencies to give in to peers as we believe it is a new trend. To kick our habit, I feel that there must be a balance when using social media to preserve good manners and prevent any miscommunications or misunderstandings with other people.