Is text messaging becoming professional lingo?

It is now too common to send or receive a message like; ‘Sir plz lemmi knw wthr u rcvd d file or nt?’ Or ‘Don’t 4get d mtg 2moro @the office’.

Where texting has becoming acceptable way of communication, text messages like the ones above are so littered with lingo that they may be difficult to comprehend, sometimes leading to misinformation.

These types of texts are usually from personal friends and family, but now becoming a common place among workplace colleagues and superiors.

With our fingers accustomed to drafting quick messages on the mobile screen, our vocabulary has become tuned to this self devised lingo. But does sending such hurriedly scripted, informal messages breach the code of official conduct? Is it good etiquette to be texting your office colleagues, especially the seniors?

Besides, has it affected our formal communication skills? Can you text your boss to ask for a pay increase with something like; ‘Sir, due 2 rsing cst of lvng, I nid a pay raise’.

Some people also send abbreviated text to save on their airtime and time.

They want to say more but spend less.

There are certain situations when you need to SMS your boss, for instance when you know he or she will be driving, or is in a meeting; or it’s late at night. In such circumstances, sending messages is a smarter option.

It also depends on the personal and professional space you share with your boss. If your boss is very strict, mobile lingo should be avoided. Also the designation matters a lot. Using abbreviations with your top boss is not a good idea.

There are certain texting rules that need to be observed. Think before you text. Ask yourself: should I email this information? Would it be better if we spoke about this topic over the phone? Would a face to face conversation be more appropriate?

The last thing you want to do is waste time sending a text that no one will understand. Determine if the information you need to communicate is simple enough for a text message.

Keep excessive short hand for personal text messages only.

If you shorten a word, make sure your recipient is more likely to make out what you mean. As a rule of thumb, if you are in doubt, spell it out.

Send texts at appropriate times.

Keep business related text messages close to working hours. But of course if your boss texts you after hours, it is appropriate to respond.

Text messaging is a more casual mode of communication; however, you do not want to embarrass yourself by being too casual. So make sure to proofread the text before you hit the send button.

Sometimes text containing sarcasm, humour and negative feedback is mistaken.

The visual and vocal components of a conversation get compromised in a text message (e.g. ‘am srry :(‘), it’s unable to convey remorse. To ensure that you appear sincere, apologise in person or over the phone.