Is it normal to feel awkward about finishing an im conversation?

81% Normal
4 Comments

I'd like to know if I'm the only one noticing this awkwardness:
IM conversation are very informal and casual, but I think things have changed since your messenger is no longer in the computer and you can't even say "ok, so I'm turning off my computer, talk to you later" or whatever.
Now it kind of feels like if you have started a conversation, the conversation is so informal that there's no even need to say goodbye, because it's not an email, right? or a letter.

Voting Results
81% Normal
Based on 16 votes (13 yes)
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Comments ( 4 )
  • DarkHighway
    8 years ago

    I agree, things have definitely changed and it creates some awkward conversations or instances where you think you're being ignored. I especially dislike the "Seen at:" timestamp because it makes you think they saw your message and just don't want to reply, when it could be a combination of many things.

    If the person leaves the conversation without saying anything and it affects you, I would tell them about it.

    It won't hurt to remind them that it helps you to know when they're signing off and that you'll begin your conversation again soon.

    There's nothing wrong with it, and if the person you're conversing with is understanding, they'll definitely remember to let you know.

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  • NeofelisNebulosa
    8 years ago

    Just tell them you have to go... It can be nerve racking waiting for a response, but overall I find texting and IMing very useful.

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    • Anonymous Post Author
      8 years ago

      Yes, extremely useful.
      It just has this things one has to get used too, or kind of know how to translate it to what you'd do if it was a "real" conversation.

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  • thegypsysailor
    8 years ago

    That sounds terribly awkward. Sitting there wondering if the other person is just needing a few minutes to talk to someone else IRL and then continue the conversation, or is gone.
    I find the whole idea of texting rather impersonal and curt. It seems to be a main contributor to the 'dumbing down' of Americans today.

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