Text message warfare: BAIT and SWITCH

The bait and switch: When a 'sender' sends a text message from a desirable and happening location informing a friend that the location is amazing and that they must come join them. After the 'receiver' takes the bait (the cool location) and are on their way there, the sender texts them saying they decided to switch to a different location, because the initial one is 'dead now'. The purpose is to get someone to come out while also sounding like you're really cool.


Bait: Quiet often when we manage to get into a location that is really cool or prestigious we want to tell people we are there. In fact, we can use this to score points with potential 'love interests' if they knew we were there, because, it's cool. Usually we promise we can get people in, or we comment on how amazing the place is. Due mostly to ego, people hate to be missing out on a cool party. Therefore, by sending a message saying, "I'm at Spoke Club. Come by and party." You are saying, I'm where the action is, why aren't you here? Due to ego, it is almost a crime against coolness, for them to not, at the very least, inquire about the situation with an immediately follow up text. If they agree to come meet you, 'the Switch' can occur....

The Switch: This is the tricky part of the scenario and is quiet often a tactic to get someone 'alone', or in a more intimate environment by, what looks like, a mistake. Basically, planned spontaneity. Once the bait is set, you usually know right away what your friend is going to do. By dropping the word 'tonight' or sending a text regarding the present, time restraints on text etiquette are thrown out; it is okay for them to text you right back, because you've established that you're both cool, and out partying. A good switch is usually to a location within walking distance of the 'bait' location. It also tends to be smaller and quieter. A weak bait and switch sends a recipient on a wild goose chase around the city and appears suspicious because of how far the bait is from the switch. (keep your switch close to your bait: know the area!)

Word to the Devious
* there doesn't have to be an actual bait location. In theory, if you have the intention of pulling a bait and switch, you don't actually have to be at the 'bait'. You could lie, using the allure of a good bait location, knowing full well that if they agree to come meet you, you are going to pull a switch. This is also very risky, because if they are at that bait location and you're not aware of this, you look like a liar.