Communication: how to divide professionals from the rest

Coming from a very controlled working environment has some advantages, especially when you deal with communication. A question must have an answer, every time, and generally the sooner, the better. Unfortunately this does not seem to be the general behaviour in the photography industry, at least for some part of it. In many forums I read that "no answer is an answer" and I started living with it, but I came out with a slightly different version of it: No answer is an unprofessional answer.
"A good question deserves a good answer"

I have worked with many people in my career, both in photography and technology, and one of the key elements for the relation with them has always been the way they were able to communicate with me and, of course, vice versa. In the photography environment, though, it seems that being able to communicate well is one of the most overrated qualities. I think that is one of the lines that divides the professionals from the amateur. Sometimes a professional reply is simply a short message saying: "Sorry, I am not interested", but it make you stuck on top of everyone else. In a world where there are no permanent positions, where being freelancers is the only option available, standing out from the crowd is the only way to go far. Sometimes you stand out for the quality of your job, but if you are up and coming you need to climb the ladder using everything you have to show you will arrive to the top, and communication is one of the most important thing.
At the end of December I had the luck to work with Luke, a hair stylist who helped us in an Editorial project (that we will release very soon on these screens, stay tuned!). Luke hit me immediately as he contacted me as soon as I sent him my details. He confirmed his availability, giving me all his contact details and keeping in touch whenever it was needed. This gave me a sense of tranquillity, that removed from my shoulder the weight of having to ask if he would have showed up or not. (If you are wondering, and you shouldn't, Luke showed up and he did a Fantastic job).
So, when I contact someone I do not expect any longer him or her to reply, it seems almost a bonus if a reply arrives. This is something that, especially if you are starting and you cannot pay people, is frustrating. Many people do this because they feel "they are at the top", that they have reached a status where their reply has a value imbued within that they are not willing to spend. Indeed, writing a reply takes time, being organised takes time, but it helps you building a good reputation.
How do you want to be remembered? For the guy who replied straight away or for the one of the many who felt too important to reply to a simple email?
And by the way, did you know that a good communication does not cost a thing? It is just based on some self organisation and some willpower.