How should you respond to a station calling CQ?

When responding to a station that is calling CQ (a general call to anyone listening), the standard and polite procedure is to transmit their call sign first, followed by your own call sign. This confirms to the calling station that you are addressing them specifically. A helpful memory trick for this protocol is 'Them, this is Me.' For instance, if W1AW calls CQ, your proper response would be, 'W1AW, this is K1XYZ.' This format provides absolute clarity on the airwaves. You do not need to repeat the word 'CQ' in your reply, nor should you jump straight into giving a signal report before initial contact is formally established with an exchange of call signs.