Influencer sparks debate over common phone act

A young Aussie has gone viral after admitting to a “weird” habit every time she calls someone new – but is it all that odd?

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”.

Influencer Bronte Rose has started a debate about a common phone act. Picture: TikTok/bronterose_

‘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”.

She asked her followers if it’s normal or weird to introduce yourself at the start of a phone call. Picture: iStock

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”.

A modern etiquette coach has weighed into the debate. Picture: Instagram/kateheussler

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”).