It’s Tuesday, so it’s time for another rant. Let’s talk about something that probably drives you up the wall, too, and that is getting a phone call from someone who’s clearly eating while they’re talking. I’m talking about the full soundscape: the slurping, the chewing, the lip-smacking, the crunching of chips, or the scraping/clanking of a fork against a plate. It’s like I’m being invited to a dinner theater production of “Gross Table Manners: The Musical.”
I know we’re all busy, but if you’re calling me, I’d like the courtesy of your actual attention. Finish your meal, wipe your mouth, and then give me a ring. I’m not your dinner guest. I didn’t sign up for the sound effects. And while I’m at it, let’s talk about lunch meetings. If you invited me out, presumably because you wanted to catch up or discuss something important, put the phone away. Nothing says “you’re not that important” like watching you answer texts, take calls, and generally ignore me while I’m trying to have a conversation with you.
It’s simple: If you’re eating, call me later. If we’re at lunch, let’s actually have lunch. Otherwise, just send me a calendar invite to listen to you chew and watch you scroll your social media feeds. And if you can’t give me your full attention for five minutes, because, after all, you invited me, do us both a favor and eat your lunch alone, and let me get back to enjoying my day.
John Berkovich Talks 