Text messaging is a common form of communication worldwide, with over 6 billion people using this service. From messaging family members to keeping in touch with colleagues, texting can be a powerful tool. However, like any technological innovation, it comes with its own advantages and disadvantages. Read on to learn more about strategic ways to convey your message through texting while minimizing any potential repercussions.
Pros of Texting
Convenience:
One of the biggest pros of texting is its convenience. You can send a message to someone regardless of their location or availability. If you need to cancel a meeting or change plans at the last minute, a quick text is often all it takes. It’s also much easier to send a message than to make a phone call, especially if you’re in a noisy place where you can’t hear well.
Speed:
Another pro of texting is its speed. You can send and receive messages instantly, which can save you time and energy. It’s much faster to type a message on your phone than to write a letter or an email. Furthermore, you can communicate with several people at the same time, increasing efficiency.
Cost:
Texting is also cheap. Many mobile phone plans come with unlimited texting, so you don’t have to worry about going over your limit and incurring extra charges. Even if you don’t have an unlimited texting plan, sending a text message is usually much cheaper than making a phone call or sending a letter.
Social Connections:
Texting can help you maintain social connections. Many people use texting to keep in touch with family and friends who live far away or have busy schedules. It’s also an easy way to stay in touch with people you’ve just met or get to know them better. Additionally, texting can be a powerful tool for building relationships between businesses and customers.
Cons of Texting
Emotionless communication:
One of the biggest cons of texting is that it can be emotionless. You don’t get to hear someone's tone of voice or see their facial expressions, which can lead to misunderstandings. Additionally, some people use text messaging as a way to avoid difficult conversations, which can create even more issues.
Distractions:
Texting can be a major distraction when driving or working. Many people have been injured or even killed due to texting while driving. It's easy to get distracted by incoming texts, leading to a lower level of productivity, and even accidents.
Dangers when Texting:
Texting can also be dangerous if you're not careful. Cyberbullying, stalking, and sexting are just a few of the dangers that come with texting. You should never share personal or confidential information over text message, and you should always be aware of your surroundings when texting.
Security:
Finally, another con of texting is security. Text messages can be intercepted by hackers or intercepted by someone with access to your phone. This means that you should always use strong passwords and avoid using public Wi-Fi networks when texting.
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Food for Thought When Texting
1. Always read your message before sending: Typos and other mistakes can misunderstand your message.
2. Be concise: Text messages should be brief and to the point.
3. Use proper grammar: Texting does not excuse poor grammar. It is essential to use proper spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
4. Avoid texting when emotions are high: It is advisable to wait until your emotions have subsided before sending a message.
5. Timely response: Always respond promptly to text messages. It shows respect for the person on the other end.
6. Avoid using texting for sensitive topics: Some things are more appropriate for conversation, phones, or face-to-face meetings.
7. Consider your audience: When texting coworkers or business partners, keep your language and tone professional.
8. Keep it respectful: Be courteous and maintain basic texting etiquette by thanking someone after a series of messages.
In the end, it is up to us to use proper judgment, and messaging etiquette and tone, to take advantage of texting's benefits and avoid misunderstandings.
**Article Originally Published at: CLICK HERE.
Written by: Colin McAllister
About the Author: Colin McAllister is an experienced and knowledgeable Information Technology professional, specializing in telehealth systems. He has a home based in Seattle, however he regularly travels throughout the United States to share his expertise. In his free time, Colin enjoys engaging in outdoor activities such as fishing, boating and hiking with friends. His passion for these activities makes him a great asset to any team environment.
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