Texting has transformed the way we communicate with others. No longer do people sit down, pick up the telephone, and engage in a long conversation. Instead, texts are sent back and forth while everyone goes about their daily routine. It allows for great freedom and the ability to multitask. However, just because texting is instrumental in communication doesn’t mean that it isn’t often misconstrued or even considered rude in some cases. This is why it is important to understand the etiquette of texting. Familiarize yourself with this modern guide to text etiquette and make sure your texts are received well.
Consider Your Audience
Texting on your T-Mobile Samsung Galaxy S7 edge is easy, but before you start a text, consider your audience. You should think about whom you’re communicating with, because while you may text friends at any time of day or use symbols and emojis, you probably don’t want to text in the same way with an employer, client, or someone else who plays a more formal role in your life. In some of these cases, the more professional people may prefer a phone call to a text, especially when you’re dealing with someone who is not a millennial. Luckily, with a reliable 4G LTE network like T-Mobile’s, and the S7 Edge’s 5.5-inch screen, you’ll be connected to everyone all the time.
Don’t Call When Texted
If someone chooses to text you instead of calling you, there is probably a reason for that. Maybe they can’t talk on the phone now, or maybe they don’t have time to chat. So please do not call someone in response to a text. It is rude and does not go along with how the conversation initiator was trying to communicate. If you feel a need to talk instead of text, send a text first asking if one of you can call the other, and state a reason.
Make Timely Responses
Another big no-no with texting is not to answer in a timely manner. Although there is nothing wrong with not immediately getting back to someone, you might be able to reply with a simple “I’m busy, get back to you soon.” The response doesn’t have to be immediate, just reasonably timely. For example, if you are in a meeting at 8 a.m. and you can’t respond right away, it is no big deal if you wait until 9 or 10 a.m. to reply. But do not ignore the text for the entire day, because this could be taken to mean that you don’t care what that person had to say.
Give Time to Respond
Conversely, when you send a text, you need to be patient in waiting for a reply. If you send one message and don’t get a reply, and then you choose to send a second text, stop with that one. Do not bombard the person on the other end with never-ending text messages. They will probably get back to you, and if they don’t, it might mean that they don’t want to text or talk in the first place or just need some space.
Communicate Clearly
Texting is a useful opportunity to practice your communication skills. Your message should clearly state what you are trying to communicate. Short sentences are better than long ones, if only because they are easier to read and digest in a hurry. Always reread your text and consider what the recipient may read into what you are saying. If something can be interpreted in multiple ways, make sure you clarify how you intend the message to be read.
Be Mindful of Emojis and Symbols
There is a time and place for emojis, symbols, and abbreviations. Emojis are fun and are easily used to communicate certain things like a mood or feeling. But they are often overused and can become annoying. So use emojis, symbols, and abbreviations sparingly or when you communicate with someone who prefers that type of texting.
There is no guarantee that your texts will be received the way you intended, but you can try to be courteous and mind your manners when texting. Follow this modern guide to text etiquette and watch how successful you become at communicating via text.
