5 Texting Mistakes that Can Turn Off Prospective Connections

Asking for my mobile number, picture, or social media handles right from the start can indeed put a damper on a conversation. Starting off with personal requests might make the other person feel uncomfortable and on the defensive right from the beginning.

Over-Use of Unnecessary Phrases

Phrases like 'good morning', 'good evening', or 'good night' and the infamous 'jevlis ka', which means 'have you finished your lunch/dinner' can quickly become irritating. These constant hellos and check-ins can make you feel like you're being pestered rather than talked to.

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One-Sided Conversations

A one-sided conversation where you are the only active participant can be awkward and irritating. It’s okay not to be in the mood to chat, but instead of replying with a single letter or a short phrase, let your peer know that you’re not up for engaging at that moment. A simple 'I’m not in the mood to chat right now' can go a long way in maintaining a positive conversation.

Leaving Messages on 'Seen'

Posting messages on 'seen' is one of the most common and annoying habits. While not every message requires a detailed response, how about acknowledging its receipt in a simple way? A thumbs up, a reaction, or even a brief comment can show that the message was received, without the need for a lengthy reply.

Mistakes to Avoid for a Good Text Conversation

Let’s delve into specific texting behaviors that can turn off a potential connection. Have you ever texted someone and then realized you wanted to take back what you said? Texting is a clear and unalterable form of communication, unlike face-to-face conversations where you can backpedal socially. Here are five common mistakes that can make a significant negative impact on a text conversation:

1. Texting According to Convenience

Those who only respond when they feel like it often only reach out when they need something. Once they get what they wanted, they disappear, making you feel like you're not important to them. Blue ticks in response to your messages may seem like they acknowledge your text, but they don't. Clear communication should aim for mutual understanding and respect.

2. Self-Obsessed Texters

Self-obsessed individuals are prone to bragging about themselves, asserting their presence, and generally focusing on their own accomplishments. If you find yourself talking about your day and gaining no response, keep in mind that they might be more focused on sharing their own life events. Listening is a critical part of any meaningful conversation, and if they aren’t paying attention, it can feel frustrating and unfulfilling.

3. Late Responders

Texting with people who reply randomly or as per their interest can be frustrating. Even if you’re online, if someone doesn't take the time to respond within a reasonable timeframe, it can make the conversation feel stale. Be patient, and if the person doesn't respond after a reasonable time, feel free to follow up politely.

4. Use of Multiple Abbreviations and Slangs

Using abbreviations and slangs can sometimes make a conversation feel rushed and incomplete. Instead of saying 'ndat', 'tc', or 'ttyl', take a moment to write out the full phrase. While saving a few milliseconds here and there might seem trivial, clarity in communication is key to building genuine connections. People appreciate the effort to communicate clearly.

5. Small Talkers

Those who focus on trivial conversations can make a conversation feel uninteresting. If you're asking small questions with no further follow-up, the other person might feel like you’re not engaging in a meaningful conversation. Try to ask direct questions and have real, relevant discussions. A formal conversation is perfectly fine on platforms like WhatsApp, but if you're not into it, make that clear.

Conclusion: By avoiding these common texting mistakes, you can make your conversations more engaging, respectful, and enjoyable for both parties involved. Establishing clear communication and mutual understanding is key to any successful text conversation.

What texting habits do you find annoying? Share in the comments below or CLICK HERE to read more about proper texting etiquette.