QUIET QUITTING AND GHOSTING

As a creator and producer, I often have to employ third parties to assist me with tasks like filming or editing and also sometimes need other comedians to be on a show. Lately I have noticed a trend of non-response. I had someone working with me somewhat consistently for nearly six months who just simply stopped responding to scheduling texts and emails. Similarly, I had sent out a few offers for shows I was producing to comedians who also just never responded, even when asked for a response within a certain time frame. In the dating world, it's called "ghosting" and it's becoming more and more acceptable in the professional world. It shouldn't be.

I believe, unless the situation or person is toxic or the contact is abusive or offensive , there is absolutely no reason not to respond to someone in a business setting. The limited level of energy to response with a "no thank you" or "I can't do this work anymore. Sorry" should be mandatory. Perhaps they are worried about a confrontation or are too fragile to seal with conflict. While in some situations, it could be a waste of time to even respond, it is frustrating to people and job creators who are trying to grow, professionally and maybe personally. I know this has become accepted with Gen Z and it shouldn't be. Being able to communicate with others, even if you don't "want" to seems like something we all should be able to do.

Perhaps you don't agree with someone or no longer enjoy the person or the setting, but an explanation goes a long way towards helping the person, and maybe yourself. Maybe you read the situation wrong or the offer you thought was "so offensive" actually was missing a "0"). Who knows. You can't be too busy to draft a response. If you can't communicate this to others, you are doing yourself and others a disservice in the long run. #standup #genz #growth