“Better to be an hour early than a minute late.”

Demonstrating punctuality is a simple courtesy. It shows your respect for others’ time.

After all, all parties involved have decided to spend a part of their life to interact with you. This applies to all interactions, be it virtual or in-person.

And since we can quantify time, it’s binary. Being on time shows respect; being late shows disrespect.

That said.

Being early is easier than being on time.

Whenever a time is set, it’s rounded off to the nearest minute (e.g., 8.00 AM, 3.30 PM). So, we only have 60 seconds to be on time. Those who show up on time arrive early. They choose to loiter around until the predetermined time.

One can be early by planning. But some events, such as road accidents or internet connectivity issues, are unpredictable. And such events can cause you to be late.

Notify the organizer or the other party promptly.

And always communicate through the quickest path. If they are more responsive on email than instant messages, use email.