Relationship expert reveals what your texting habits say about you

In the world of communicating via messaging, we’ve all unconsciously developed our own “texting personalities,” according to a relationship expert.

Tina Wilson, British founder of Wingmantold FEMAIL how your phone habits can say more about you than you think, including whether you’re someone who overwhelms friends or makes them feel good.

There are also people who ‘cherry pick’ who they want to get in touch with, which can be ‘extremely frustrating’ and ‘rude’, the relationship expert claims.

But fear not, because in addition to revealing the different texting personality types, Tina also shared how to interact with each character – from playing them at their own game to even explaining that you only want to talk face-to-face.

Here, the expert provides insight into what your typical texting behavior says about you – and about the person you’re messaging…

Answering machine for on the road

Tina revealed, “A responder on the road is a busy bee. They have their fingers in a lot of pies and often say how incredibly busy they are. They try their best to reply, which is why it always seems to be in transit mode.

;Sometimes this can seem distant, but deep down they have good intentions. They will also stop a text conversation midway if they are going to a meeting or boarding their flight.

“It can make others feel like they don’t have time for it, which is technically true to some extent.

‘However, they should try to understand that the intentions of positive communication are there, even if at times they appear rushed, not fully present and distracted.

“If you both care about each other, try to take time for a good conversation every now and then, on the phone or in person, so that one party’s on-the-go communication is worth the rush of their text messages.”

Strategic copywriter

‘A strategic texter is someone who makes contact for their own benefit. They do it for themselves and will use manipulation tactics to get what they want,” the expert explains.

‘That is why this type of text message is known as the strategic text messager. They will give the impression that they are being considerate or doing you a favor, but it is all premeditated for their own gain.

‘This may initially leave the recipient elated, as he or she could be sold on the charm or thoughtful nature of the texter’s intentions. This applies to both work and personal situations.

‘However, it often makes people feel like they are just a pawn in the texter’s game, which is only useful in certain situations. I suggest delaying the initial response and asking yourself why they are contacting you in the first place. Read between the lines.

“By sitting back, pausing, and responding when you’re not busy, you can help ensure you aren’t being taken advantage of and better understand their intentions.”

Emoji responder

Tina defined an emoji replier as “someone who has the habit of responding with emojis to convey their thoughts or emotions.”

She added: ‘They are classified as lazy texters as, for example, they can reply to even long text messages with a thumbs up.

“They’re not necessarily ‘on the go’, but most likely can’t be bothered to respond with written words and think an emoji will suffice. They may be having multiple WhatsApp conversations, switching between these conversations, or they may be distracted at work.

‘Emoji replies can be fun or communicative when a simple answer is required, especially when both parties are busy.

“But don’t fall into the trap of confusion or making assumptions, especially if it’s in response to something important. For these types of communicators, it may be best to pick up the phone and clarify things right away. That will save you a lot of hassle and prevent misunderstandings.’

I love Bomber Texter

“Just like in the dating world, love bombing is very common in texting scenarios,” Tina said. ‘Love Bombers will overwhelm your phone with funny, romantic, wonderful things or even gossip.

‘Just like in romantic relationships, a classic love bomber will overdo the communication and then suddenly disappear, only to return with their charm.

‘Treat a love bomber with a pinch of salt. Their charming words should keep you from feeling abandoned later, which often happens.

‘When someone in psychology breaks off contact, we want more. Even though a love bomber can make someone feel great in the moment, their pattern of flurries of texts followed by silence can have a negative impact on the responder.

“If they are a love interest and making fun of you, walk away. If it’s a friend or family member, try to explain that you’d rather have an actual conversation with them.”

Guaranteed answer

“A guaranteed replyer will always text back because they are a people pleaser. You can expect a quick response, rain or shine. These types of texters are flexible and tolerant and often put the needs of others before their own,” the relationship expert explains.

“They likely respond to others to fulfill a deep desire to be liked and loved.” Because they efficiently meet the emotional needs of others, there is a risk that a guaranteed responder will overlook their own needs.

‘So it’s important not to pile on too much and try to keep a bit of balance. They may not always be the right friend to ask for advice because they have a habit of coming up with perfect answers.

“Tough love or honesty can take a back seat as they focus on being kind, sweet and diplomatic.”

Answer Roulette Texter

“A reply roulette texter will only respond to certain messages, and is clearly cherry-picking when he or she wants to participate in a text exchange,” Tina warned.

“Most people on the receiving end will assume that the Reply Roulette SMS accidentally missed a message. However, when it occurs repeatedly, it is clear that they are deliberately avoiding certain texts.

‘This can be extremely frustrating when you need answers about plans or important confirmation.

‘To outsmart a reply roulette texter, play them at their own game. Stop the banter and friendly exchanges and respond only with the specific question you want answered.

“While it’s normal to miss things every now and then, repeat offenders need better manners.”