We've all been eSnubbed. It starts with an unanswered IM, e-mail or even twitter. Maybe you asked a direct question or you were in the midst of general conversation, when suddenly replies cease.

In the world of technology, it's easy to assume that a mishap occurred. But after a follow up IM, e-mail or tweet, you discover that you are still going unanswered.

That's when you realize you've been eSnubbed.

With the popularity of technological communication, the eSnub is a growing problem. It is beyond easy to ignore a growing in-box full of virtual messages. When your eyes start to glaze over at the list, you may just forget the actual people behind each message who need your attention.

As it is, there are several assumptions one can make about the eSnub. Maybe the person is and was busy; maybe they're not organized enough to reply to the question; or maybe, just maybe, you were eSnubbed on purpose.

The eSnub is like the latest technological party foul. Sure it's easy to blow someone off due to disorganization or lack of time, but won't you still be dogged by guilt ... and follow-up messages? Or do you enjoy the one-click approach to weeding out the extras in your life? Do you over-analyze unreturned e-mails for signs of rejection, or do you figure it's the byproduct of a busy life?

Of course, there is one crazy thing you can do if you truly want to talk to the person: Pick up the phone.

Tell us: What do you do when you've been eSnubbed? Have you ever purposely used the tactic yourself?