OMG, Texting Acronyms in Professional Documents?

Whether by cell phone or personal computer, IM and text messaging have crowned abbreviations the new communications norm.  While acceptable when conversing with casual acquaintances in this mode and via personal email, texting acronyms such as TTL, LOL, and OMG should never appear in formal writing. Plus, who has time to scour for translations?

Young people, heavily immersed in technology and overly reliant on speed, are often prone to making these mistakes. Formal writing rules are applicable to business correspondence, academic papers, resumes, covers letters and emails utilized in professional settings. Not only is the inclusion of acronyms and emoticons unprofessional, but writing continues to be governed by the audience targeted. Here’s my rule of thumb: Whenever in doubt, don’t.