When you don't need to call
Instant messages – the alternative to talking.
Sometimes it's just not convenient to talk. That's where instant messaging (IM) chat comes in handy.
Get an instant response.
IM when talking isn't convenient.
Quickly send website links.
Instant messaging
Instead of talking, you could type your heart out with instant messaging. This works really well when you're sharing information like a website address. It's easier than spelling out as you can type or paste the address into the IM window and it's just a click away for the person on the other end.
Typing indicator
Instant messages are a great way to communicate but sometimes you can get carried away and type at the same time as the other person, and your conversation can go all wonky. The latest version of Skype has a typing indicator that shows a pencil next to your contact's name when they are typing. Now you can tell at a glance when they are about to respond – and either hold off or type your response quickly first, if you're the quick typing type.
Edit your instant messages
It's easy to accidentally hit ‘Send' before checking what you've written, then realise you've made a mistake.
Skype lets you edit messages you have sent. Just right click on the message and edit what you've written or remove it entirely. For this to work, everyone in the chat needs to have the latest version of Skype.
Emoticons – add humor and feeling to your chats
A picture tells a thousand words and with Skype you can send emoticons or small pictures in chats to show how you're feeling. You can send a smiley face at the end of your sentence or a thumbs up if you agree with what the other person is saying. There's a number of slightly ruder options, too, if you're up for it.
Leading UK architects Lewis and Hickey
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Got questions?
How instant messaging works
Instant messages are a simple way of quickly getting in contact with your contacts. Check out the guide and start chatting.
