How To Text Without Causing Offence

Step 1: Alert tones

Select an inoffensive alert tone and keep it to a low volume. Practice switching the alert to silent so you can change it with ease when needed.

Step 2: When and where

If you are in a location that outlaws the use of mobile phones, the same applies to your text function.

However, if you are in an area where the use of mobile phones is restricted because of the sound disruption, such as a library or waiting room, it is acceptable to text - as long as your alert setting is on silent.

Step 3: Texting in company

The company you are in should always take precedence over the calls and texts you receive. Otherwise you are giving the impression that the message is more important than the person right in front of you.
If you must read or reply to a text while you are in company, apologise first.

Step 4: Keep it informal

Texts are quick, brief and easy - and the sentiments of the message should reflect this. It's not the method to use to send out formal invitations, or to finalise business deals.

Step 5: Be Concise

SMS stands for short messaging service. So keep it brief. The majority of phones only handle messages of 160 characters. Longer messages will risk will risk information drop out, or be broke into two messages. If you need more than 160 characters, send an email or make a call instead.

Step 6: Acronyms and abbreviations

Although it saves space, if you don't think the recipient will understand the message, don't use the latest cool acronym. Texting is all about communication, not confusion.

Step 7: When to call instead

Texting isn't the medium to use for a discussion. Don't text back and forth - make a call.

Definitely don't hide behind a text when you really need to have a conversation. Dumping, firing or starting an argument should never be done by text.

Step 8: TUI - Texting under the influence

Don't do it. After a few drinks it might seem like a good idea to tell your ex, or your boss, exactly what you think of them. But in the morning you will find out that it wasn't a good idea after all.