About two months ago, I noticed an Instagram story with a couple minor grammar mistakes in it. That account had been recommended to me based on some other local Curaçao business accounts that I follow. The person behind that particular Instagram story struck me as being a hard-working young professional. She came across as both inspirational and effective on the island with her expertise in virtual business management, web design, video editing and a long list of other skills and qualifications. Without knowing her personally, and after discussing with my husband whether it would be appropriate to do so, I decided to send a private message and gently correct her grammar. I couldn't bare the thought of a good Monday morning motivational post landing flat because of a few grammar mistakes.
To my surprise, she responded very positively. She thanked me for the corrections and asked if we could meet. From my message and perhaps after viewing my profile, she knew I was an English language professional and thought that she could use my services and even recommend me to her clients. What a wonderful response to a grammar correction! I was thrilled to have the opportunity to meet someone with such a refreshing positive energy.
We met at my favourite coffee shop on the island where we could sit in a breezy, socially-distanced spot. We each shared our stories of how we got where we are workwise—both of us having made career adjustments for various reasons. We discussed how I could help with a few projects, and I left thinking how impressive this young woman was and what an asset she is to Curaçao. Not long afterward, I was working on proofreading, copy editing and content writing for her business.
So in this time of social distancing, personal bubbles, lockdowns and quarantines, reaching out on a human level is still effective. With so many of us working online, we often forget that there are real people at the other end of messages, emails and posts. Sending a message correcting a stranger's grammar led to a wonderful new island connection, enjoyable projects and possible future collaboration. I think that's a pretty great little lesson on not being afraid to reach out and connect. After all, we're all just folks trying to make a go of it one way or another. We may as well help each other.
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