Texting and Dating: How to Make it Work

These days, people prefer texting over calling. It's easier and more efficient to communicate this way, but it can also wreak havoc on your dating life if you're not paying attention to some simple guidelines.

Following are some ways to keep in touch with someone you're interested in, along with some texting etiquette.

DON'T text if you're on a date. Put your cell phone away so you aren't potentially distracted. It's inconsiderate to text someone else while you are supposed to be getting to know your date. Also, if you're talking negatively about your date, you could risk him seeing what you're writing.

DO text after a date. Sending a couple of flirtatious texts after a date keeps the interest going, and lets your date know you'd like to see him again. However, don't get carried away, especially if you're just getting to know each other. Sending 50 texts looks more desperate than attractive!

DO text back promptly. I'm not advocating waiting by your cell phone for the next text from your love interest, but it's good not to let too much time go by before responding. Many people who are single date more than one person at a time, so being prompt at responding lets the person know you're into him or her. Keep it brief, though, and again, don't become addicted to texting. A response is enough.

DON'T text the wrong person. If you don't want to see someone anymore, remember to erase them from your address book (and let them know!). I got a text once from a guy I was interested in thanking me for "a great time last night", but I hadn't seen him in weeks. Obviously, he'd texted the wrong Kelly.

DON'T replace talking things out with texting. All relationships are built on good communication, and texting leaves a lot to the imagination. Emotions can't be conveyed over text, or they can be misinterpreted. If you have a textual misunderstanding, pick up the phone and straighten it out!