4 Tips on Texting Professionally

1. Avoid using acronyms and abbreviations
   Although they can make texting a lot easier, it can cause confusion between individuals. Just because you know what the acronym and abbreviations mean, does not mean the person on the other end does. It may feel like you're talking a completely different language to others. If you are going to use them, use more common professional ones, and stay away from using ones such as "WTF" and "GTFO" which are viewed as being extremely unprofessional. The best idea is to take a few extra seconds and type out the complete words, to keep it on the safe side.


2. Do not send bad news over a text
   Some issues are more important and they should be taken care of with a phone call or face-to-face conversation rather than a text message. "Don't give negative feedback or quit your job in a text," Pachter writes. "In both cases, speak to the person concerned. Even if you are leaving a company, you don't want to burn your bridges — you may need a reference in the future." (Business Insider, 2014) It especially looks better on you if you talk with someone one on one instead of through an electronic device that makes it seem like you're avoiding the situation.
   
   
3. Never text in a meeting or presentation
   Texting during a meeting and presentation causes you to draw attention to yourself, and not only is it a distraction to you, it's also a distraction to everyone around you. Not paying attention to the speaker and looking down at your phone gives off a bad impression. It makes you look as if you could not care less about what the speaker is saying. It is common courtesy to give your full attention to the person at the front of the room, just as you would want everyone else's attention if that were you up there.
   
   
4. Look over messages before hitting send
   Without rereading your typed out message you can easily send a message with spelling errors and improper language. It is simple to make mistakes while typing, especially if you're in a rush and typing quick. Autocorrect is also a big factor when texting. It does not always understand what you mean, or recognize the words you are using and without realizing it, autocorrect will change them. Technology is not always right, so to be safe, you should always proof read your messages before sending.
   
   
   
   References 
   
   
   Smith, J. Giang, V. (2014, September 18). 7 Rules Of Texting Etiquette Every Professional Needs To Know. Retrieved March 7, 2015, from http://www.businessinsider.com/texting-etiquette-rules-2014-9
   
   
   Smith, T. (n.d.). 20 Business Texting Tips | Little Things Matter. Retrieved March 7, 2015, from http://www.littlethingsmatter.com/blog/2010/03/02/20-business-texting-tips/