Something happened this week that brought to mind the technology that we use on a day to day basis that most of us, probably never think about. One of those wonderful things is the very useful but sometimes terribly mis-used text message. I know that it is very helpful and also saves alot of time, especially when your in a big hurry and can't bear to get tied into a phone conversation with that chatty agent who has nothing better to do that talk about her uncle Bob's hip-replacement surgery. LOL, that was a joke but on a serious note I thought it would be a great idea for a list of some do's and do not's of texting...Most of these "should be" common sense but apparently, (after the ordeal this week) I learned some of us may be a little slower than others....so here it goes!
Text messaging 101...
1. Keep them short and sweet. If you need to write someone an in-depth message, send an email. Otherwise, give them a ring or see them in person. Long texts can be confusing or tough to respond to.
2. Consider your wireless costs.If upgrading to a different mobile plan includes unlimited texts and you're an avid text messager it maybe worth the extra cost,but above all consider the person your texting 500 times a day. Make sure that your texting habits is coherent to their plan as well as your own.
3. DON"T text while driving. LOL, okay This one falls into the common sense thing I was referring to in the beginning of the blog. Do I need to go into the why nots of this one? Okay, If you insist!
4. Be conscience of the tone of your text. It is extremely difficult to discern tone in text messages, same as in e- mail. What seems to you to be a completely innocent message may be grossly misinterpreted by the recipient, causing certain discomfort if not irreparable harm. Also, consider that your point may not be getting across though text message and your receiver may not understand (or worse, may mis-interpret) what your trying to convey to them. So, do yourself a favor, take the plunge and pick up the phone for important issues.
5. Be conscientious of others' schedules.Don't assume that because you are awake, not working, not busy, or (in extreme cases and we all know this person) NOT sober that the person you're texting is as well. Many peaceful dreams have been interrupted by the recurring text messenger that has no boundaries about who, when, and where they text.
6. Texting should remain casual. Texting can be fun but it should be for casual conversation. Use it to say hello, change of plans, etc...do not use text messaging to send out; into outer space, every thought that pops into your head. When you put something out there,try to remember that it is out there and it cannot be taken back. There is no guarantees who besides the person you are sending this to will run across your personal message. In these cases PLEASE use your phone to call the person or better yet have a good old face to face.
These are good rules of thumb that comes to mind, please feel free to add your on. I would be interested to hear your takes on this subject.
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