Parents, teachers, and now bosses, fear it. The dreaded omg, the hated lol, and the wrong ur. I read articles recently about teachers’ thoughts on how this new vocabulary is sneaking itself into students’ assignments. From amused to angry, these teachers all recognize that they have to deal with this trend. It got me thinking, in the professional world, what should our response be? Should we recognize that the “times are a’changing?” Or should we hold ourselves to higher standards of professionalism?

Abbreviations are not that new. From okto NASA, we all use abbreviations and short-cuts in our emails, letters, and even pamphlets. They’re clear and efficient, and no one seems to mind. When is the last time that you’ve written out United States of America? I know that I appreciate never having to write out Minnesota or North Dakota when I address mail to these states. I really appreciate that the USPS (another one…) has a handy list of abbreviations. Abbreviation can save time and space. Also, as one article pointed out, abbreviation is not a NEW language. It’s just the shortening of our language. And language, by nature, is an evolving thing that reflects our culture.

All that being said, the language of texting can be frustrating. It sends a blasé, slacker tone. Messages with respectful content come off as cheap or hurried. When I am thanking someone, and I don’t take the time to spell out “thank you,” it sends a mixed message. Emails that use sry and ttyl don’t feel like business; they read like a text from your 18 year-old daughter.

Abbreviations are inherently casual. Think about wedding invitations; they’re formal and so they do not shorten anything, except RSVP! In every situation, you have to think about the formality of the communication.

So what should YOU do? I think this problem, yet again, is a time for some good old fashion prudence. I don’t really think there is an EASY answer. It’s just fine, in my book, to sign off an email to your sister with an emoticon and a ttyl. I wouldn’t, however, tell your boss thx for the input on the project.

While I have no set answer for you, I would advise you to consider these three questions:

1.Who are you communicating with?
2.What style of communication are they comfortable with?
3.What is the intended tone of content of the message?