Influencer sparks debate over common phone act

News.com.au

21-05-2025

Ask anyone who isn't Gen Z, and they'll tell you that basic etiquette seems to be a thing of the past.
People no longer pick up the phone and instead, just fire off a text, opting for convenience over a human interaction.
Then, when they have to actually make a phone call, for a restaurant reservation or to inquire about an item at a shop, it's little wonder many lack the skills to converse with a stranger.
A TikTok video has recently highlighted this issue and sparked debate over whether we should introduce ourselves at the beginning of a phone call or just start yapping away.
The video that started it all
The clip was shared by Bronte Rose, a Sydney-based influencer who describes herself as a 'chronic over-sharer' to her 103k followers.
'When I am calling a restaurant or anywhere, I say, 'Hi, my name is Bronte. I'm just wondering if you have a table for two tonight?'' she explained to her friends in the video.
Her friend pushed back, asking if she'd do the same when calling somewhere like JB Hi-Fi.
'Yeah, it's just common courtesy,' Rose insisted.
Her friend, clearly surprised, replied, 'Like, it's nice, you're very polite, but I think no one else does it'.
'Second nature'
After the video went viral, with people in the comments fiercely divided, Rose explained to news.com.au that she had no idea 'it was a strange thing to do,' as the behaviour is 'second nature' to her.
'I personally like to know who I'm talking to when I pick up the phone. Nine times out of ten, it's also very relevant information,' she said.
'It's something I have always done, and I think it was taught to me as good manners.'
But does she think it's rude not to?
'I might ruffle feathers here, as I know lots of people disagree with me, but I do think it's rude,' she admits. 'The person you're ordering a pizza from is human too, and I'll always try to make every interaction a good one'.
The internet weighs in
'Bronte is correct and polite,' wrote one person in the comments.
Another chimed in, 'Bronte, you are 100% correct. Not enough people know how to communicate on the phone'.
A call centre worker added, 'I work in a call centre and LOVE when people say their names at the start! It's just polite to let the other person know who they're talking to'.
But not everyone agreed.
'Wait, I have NEVER done this,' revealed one user.
'Nah, been a receptionist for 10 years and I constantly make fun of people for saying their name … like why do I care, just tell me what you need,' another joked.
Others said they just launch right into their query: 'I just say, 'Hi, how are you doing?', then proceed to ask my question'.
What does an expert think?
To settle the debate, news.com.au spoke with Kate Heussler, a modern etiquette coach, who says the answer isn't black or white.
'Introducing yourself at the start of any call is a must,' she continues, 'especially if it's someone you haven't spoken to before or if the number is unfamiliar.
'It's like knocking on someone's door before you walk in – simple, considerate, and it sets the tone.'
Heussler notes that it may even be worthwhile to do a quick intro when talking to people you know.
'If you're calling your best friend, a family member, or someone you speak to daily, diving straight into the conversation is totally fine. It's all about familiarity,' she says. 'But even then, a quick, 'Hey, it's me!' or 'me again' still adds a touch of respect and clarity'.
How to introduce yourself
When you do find yourself wanting to introduce yourself to a stranger over the phone, she suggests keeping it 'clear, confident and warm'.
She advises: 'Lead with your name, a touch of context, and a check-in. Something like, 'Hi, it's (name) – I'm just calling to chat about (topic). Is now a good time?' It shows respect for their schedule and instantly breaks down barriers'.
Other common phone call mistakes
According to Heussler, other phone call missteps include skipping the check-in ('It's considerate to ask if it's a good time, especially if it's unexpected'), talking too fast or too loudly ('Slowing down just a touch makes you sound confident and clear'), and not being prepared ('Jotting down a few key points beforehand can be a game-changer').