Texting Etiquette and the Unwritten Rules of Communicating in the Digital Era

Texting Etiquette and the Unwritten Rules of Communicating in the Digital Era
Texting Etiquette and the Unwritten Rules of Communicating in the Digital Era

Communicating with people can get a little tricky with all the changes that have happened in recent years. Now, you have to learn how to talk with someone online using a dating site without any social training and guidance. Fortunately, there are experts on the topic willing to share their knowledge. Dating experts from iwantu.com has shared some unspoken rules we must remember and following during an online conversation.

Don't Be Afraid to Text First

A lot of people, especially women, are afraid to text first when they're dating someone or just had a date with them. Think about it this way: you're using an online dating website to get what you want. Stop wimping out and go get what you want, but don't make yourself appear desperate. If you just got done having a date, then a good way to close out the day would be to say something like "I had a nice time today; we should do that again in the future." It leaves planning to a future date and lets them know how you felt to avoid uncertainty.

Keep the Other Person's Schedule in Mind

The reason that people choose to date online is so that they don't have to fight their work schedule and family responsibilities when looking for affection. However, many people fail to take those things into account when they're dating online. Make sure that you're being fair and realistic when setting updates.

Always Respond

Nobody likes to be left on "read." Make sure you respond to someone, even if you don't like them the way they like you. Be respectful and direct. However, if someone becomes unkind, then ditch them entirely.

Keep Your Texts Short

Shakespeare once wrote that "Brevity is the soul of wit." In other words, say what you want and nothing more. You don't have to write a wall of words to tell someone how you feel. If you have written all those words, then call them instead.

If You Don't Receive a Reply Right Away, Don't Panic

Too many people forget that text messaging and online dating are meant to be used as communication tools. They don't shackle someone to you. Someone could be at work or school, asleep, or just taking a break from technology. If they are respectful, then they'll get back to you when they can.

Grammar and Spelling Are Matter

Nobody wants to date someone that isn't smart. Not only is it uncomfortable, but it has bad connotations for other aspects of your life. Make sure you can spell and use the proper apostrophes when you're texting. Otherwise, you might find your messages are not getting any attention.

Watch Out with Jokes

People have different interpretations of humor. Some people love dark humor and other people like to make fun of a certain group of people. However, your date might not feel the same way. Make your jokes clean and comfortable. Don't make any innuendo with a person you just met. Not only is it gross, but it might be downright illegal in some contexts!

The world of online dating can take some time to get used to. The rules of communication are often more subtle than they are anywhere else. Yet, by using these guidelines, you can effectively increase your chances of having a positive interaction with someone online. While there is no surefire way that you will always get the response you want, these tips will help see you through the basics of communicating online with respect!

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