Text-First Dating Is a Real Format, Not a Waiting Room

Decide whether text is the primary format or a bridge to something else. Share typical message length, reply pace, whether double-texting is welcome, and how to flag low capacity.

Use a structured first exchange if blank-page openings are expensive: one specific question each, a shared prompt, or an infodump invitation.

If one person eventually needs voice or in-person contact, say so as a compatibility need—not as a test the other person failed.