Texting and Using Social Media Professionally

The prevalence of social media and text messaging means there is a danger that people will communicate inappropriately or unprofessionally. Eve Ash and Peter Quarry’s list of DOs and DON’Ts include establishing how other people would prefer to communicate (i.e. through text messages, emails or phone calls). When texting or emailing it is important to think before you send, to avoid personal or insensitive remarks and jokes, to put the brakes on impulsive reactions, and to consider the possible consequences of your communication.

When using social media or texts, it is important to:

• Establish other people’s preferred mode of communication
• Be sensitive about when to text
• Be respectful
• Avoid being personal or insensitive
• Avoid posting or messaging when emotional
• Respond strategically – after considering all the possible consequences