Texting has become a generational battleground. As a boomer, you might think you’re just sending a message, but to younger folks, you may unintentionally seem distant and unfeeling.
Let’s face it, communication styles have evolved and what was acceptable yesterday might be deemed off-putting today.
Understanding these generational discrepancies can help bridge the communication gap. No one wants to come across as cold or impersonal, especially when that’s not the intention.
Buckle up as we explore 7 common texting habits that boomers have, which might be perceived as chilly or aloof by the younger generation.
1) The full stop overload
Texting etiquette varies greatly between generations. And one key area where this difference is stark is the use of the full stop.
While Boomers tend to punctuate every sentence with a period, younger generations often interpret this as a sign of annoyance or finality. It’s like you’re shutting down the conversation or adding an unnecessary emphasis.
In the digital world, a full stop can be seen as cold and impersonal. This might seem odd to Boomers, who were taught that proper punctuation is essential for clarity in communication.
However, in the realm of texting, less formal grammar is the norm and full stops can sometimes convey an unintended tone.
So, before you hit send on that text, consider how your punctuation could be perceived. Could that innocent full stop be misinterpreted as a cold shoulder?
2) Overuse of formal language
Just the other day, I texted my niece to check in on her. Instead of a casual “Hey, how’s it going?”, I fell into my usual habit and said, “Hello, how are you faring this fine day?”
Her response? A single word: “formal.”
My formal language, which I thought was polite and considerate, had created a disconnect between us. Formality in texts can come across as stiff and unapproachable to younger people who are used to a more laid-back style of communication.
The language we use in our texts can create an unseen barrier. It’s not about dumbing down or being overly familiar, but rather about matching the tone to the medium. In texts, short and sweet often beats formal and verbose.
Yes, lesson learned for me. I now start my messages with a friendly ‘Hey’ instead of a stately ‘Hello’.
3) Absence of emojis
Emojis are more than just fun symbols to jazz up a text message. They play a crucial role in conveying tone and emotion, especially when facial expressions and vocal inflections can’t be seen or heard.
While boomers might view emojis as frivolous or unprofessional, younger generations use them as a crucial part of their digital language.
In fact, according to the Emoji Report by Emogi, 92% of the online population use emojis. That’s a lot of smiley faces!
So, if your texts are devoid of these expressive symbols, they might come across as cold and lacking in emotion. Incorporating emojis into your text messages can make them seem more personal and expressive. It’s like adding a digital smile to your words.
4) Ignoring the power of ‘lol’
The phrase ‘lol’ might seem like a frivolous addition to a text message, but it’s actually a powerful tool to convey warmth and friendliness.
Boomers might shy away from using ‘lol’ because it seems too casual or they might not fully understand its usage. However, in the world of texting, ‘lol’ has evolved beyond its literal meaning of ‘laugh out loud.’
Younger generations often use ‘lol’ to lighten the mood, show empathy, or even to soften a statement that could be interpreted as harsh. A text saying ‘That’s not right lol’ feels friendlier and less confrontational than simply ‘That’s not right.’
By leaving out ‘lol,’ your messages might be coming across as more serious or stern than you intend. Don’t underestimate the power of a well-placed ‘lol’ to warm up your texts.
5) Not responding to texts promptly
I must confess, I’ve been guilty of this one. With the hustle and bustle of life, sometimes it takes me a while to respond to texts. However, I’ve come to realize this delay can be seen as dismissive or uncaring by younger folks.
In this age of instant communication, a delayed response can send the wrong message. Younger generations often expect a quick reply, and when it doesn’t come, they might feel overlooked or unimportant.
Even if you can’t engage in a full conversation right away, a quick acknowledgment can go a long way in showing you value the person reaching out to you.
So now, when I receive a text and I’m caught up with something, I make it a point to send a quick ‘Got your message, will reply soon’ text. That way, they know they’re not being ignored.
6) Writing in all caps
Typing in all caps is a real no-no in the world of texting. While boomers might see it as a way to emphasize a point, younger people often interpret it as shouting or expressing anger.
In fact, ALL CAPS is so synonymous with yelling online that it’s become internet etiquette not to use it unless you’re intentionally trying to convey strong emotions.
So, if you’re typing your messages in all caps, you might unintentionally come across as aggressive or overly intense. Instead, consider using an exclamation point or emoji to emphasize your point.
It’s a softer way of getting your message across without turning up the volume too high.
7) Lack of text speak
Understanding and utilizing text speak is key to communicating effectively with younger generations. While ‘BRB’ and ‘IDK’ might seem like alien language to some boomers, to younger folks, these abbreviations are a standard part of texting lingo.
Not using text speak can make your messages seem overly formal and out of touch. It’s not about trying to be ‘hip’ or ‘cool,’ but about showing that you understand their mode of communication.
So, brush up on your text speak. A handy online guide can bring you up to speed on common abbreviations and acronyms.
Remember, communication is a two-way street. Just as we expect younger generations to respect our communication style, we should also make an effort to understand theirs.
Final thoughts: It’s about connection
The essence of communication, regardless of the medium, is connection. It’s about understanding and being understood.
In the realm of texting, small habits can create big impacts. What seems insignificant to one generation can carry a different weight for another.
The use of full stops, formality, and response time – these aren’t just texting quirks. They’re signals that shape how our messages are received and perceived.
As we navigate this digital world, it’s worth remembering that our words, and how we present them, matter. They can create bridges or walls, warmth or chill.
So, consider your texting habits. Reflect on them. Are they fostering connection or creating distance?
In the end, isn’t that what communication is all about? Making sure that the message sent is the message received, and in doing so, bringing us a little closer together.
