Cheryl Tweedy sent one to dump Ashley Cole and Christine Bleakley used it to fire her agent. It seems texting is now a socially acceptable way to break important news to those closest to us.
New research from T-Mobile reveals that celebrities are inspiring Brits to turn to text when they want to break major news, such as an engagement, the birth of a baby or even a relationship break up.
Over one in five (22%) of those under 35, believe that celebrities have made texting a more acceptable means of breaking big news and now almost a quarter (23%) of those aged 18 - 44 share major news by text.
When it comes to breaking bad news, such as getting fired or dumping a partner, 42% believe sending a text is an appropriate way of letting people know.
The reason for this is our preference for being bashful Brits, as we prefer to steer clear of confrontation (22%), and we don’t like feeling embarrassed when speaking to people (20%).
The research for T-Mobile’s ‘Free Texts for Life’ offer also reveals that texting offers us the chance to avoid stumbling through an awkward conversation, as 21% like to plan what they are going to say. It seems there’s less of a social taboo around sending positive announcements by text, with 63% believing it is fine to send good news via SMS.
Twenty-one per cent think it’s acceptable to tell friends and family about the birth of a child by text, 17% would share engagement news and one in ten (11%) would tell people they got married on text.
16 - WORK
Interestingly, more women (32%) tap out a text to break news, compared to 23% of men. Those who have recently been taking exams are obviously concerned about the results, with 73% of those aged 18-24 believing it is ok to share the news they’ve failed a test with family by text message.
Jo Bryant of etiquette experts, Debrett’s, said: “Over the years celebrities have shaped the way we dress, eat and the places we go. Now it would seem that they’re influencing the way we communicate. Whilst many people might be affronted by receiving a text to inform them of life-changing news, such as a break up or pregnancy, for younger generations this is perfectly acceptable, especially as it helps them plan what they are going to say.
“The trick is to be aware of who you are communicating with, and being sure to cater for their own needs and expectations. If you are going to use texts, make sure you avoid super short messages so recipients feel appreciated.”
Sanjeev Shah, Commercial Director at T-Mobile, said: “Texting has become such a essential part of the social fabric. We use it to share not only our day to day news with friends and family, but increasingly, the more significant highs and lows of our lives. Where once it was tradition to announce births in the newspaper and send cards or telegrams celebrating engagements and marriages, many of our customers are using texts instead.
LET YOUR FINGERS DO THE WORK TEXTING THE NEWS
“Right now, it’s perfectly acceptable to send good news via text, but as social behaviours develop over time and we hear about celebrities and other major influencers’ behaviours, we can expect that all major news - good or bad - will be acceptable to share via text and less traditional forms of communication.”
So where does your business stand on the use of text as a form of communication?
Peter Done, Managing Director of Peninsula comments: “From a businesses point of view, work related texts should not be used and to get a message across directly and successfully, face-to-face or telephone communication should always be the first port of call. Communicating in this manner means you can get across the message more professionally and can confirm it is understood.
“If someone is unavailable and you need to electronically communicate, I would always recommend email instead of texting. When texting, it is harder to track down a message sent a month ago which may be needed for reference.
“However, with an email it is easy to find messages quickly. In addition, texting information creates a less professional feel and even if a piece of information is highly important, sending it via text would undermine its importance. Another reason why texting shouldn’t be used in the business environment is the fact that your information could be picked up by anyone.
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