The Power of Closing the Loop

Let’s talk about something that has quietly become common and, in my opinion, needs to stop.

Ghosting.

It originally appeared in the dating world as someone suddenly disappearing without explanation. Messages would go unanswered, calls ignored, and the other person would simply be left hanging, wondering what happened.

Unfortunately, that behavior has now made its way into the professional world.

Emails go unanswered. Messages are ignored. Conversations just stop. Somehow, it has become acceptable to disappear rather than communicate directly.

I understand that people are busy. We all are. Full calendars and overflowing inboxes are part of modern life. But being busy is not an excuse for avoiding communication. A short response takes less than thirty seconds and shows basic respect for the person on the other side.

“No, thank you."

”Not right now."

”I’m not interested."

”This isn’t a fit.”

Clear communication closes the loop and allows everyone to move forward. It's also taking responsibility. 

When someone ghosts you, it leaves a very different impression. Whether intended or not, the message is that the person reaching out was not important enough to warrant a response. It feels dismissive. It feels careless.

Personally, I find it frustrating. I’m a big girl. I can absolutely handle a rejection or a no. That is part of life and part of business. What feels disrespectful is when someone simply disappears and chooses not to respond at all. What has surprised me recently is seeing this happen with people in very senior leadership roles. Titles do not always translate into leadership behavior.

One of the leadership principles I speak about often is taking 100% responsibility. That responsibility includes communication. Leadership is not only about big decisions or inspiring speeches. It is also about the small everyday behaviors that show respect for others.

Responding to someone who has taken the time to reach out is one of those behaviors.

Small actions like this shape culture more than we realize. If we want workplaces and communities that operate with integrity, kindness, and professionalism, it starts with simple acts of courtesy.

Answer the message. Close the loop. Be direct and respectful.

Let’s create a better trend- one built on responsibility, compassion, and basic human decency.

With awareness,

P.S. I would love to hear back from you on this topic! Please PM me and share your feelings and thoughts.