Life in Beijing involves navigating WeChat groups and their array of memorable characters. From the persistent self-promoter to the elusive lurker, these chats feature a diverse blend of personalities. Are you the link-sharing ninja? The drama queen? Or perhaps the sticker-loving emoji maestro? One thing is clear: if you've participated in a group chat, you've encountered them all. If you're on the lookout for the ideal group suited for you, be sure to check out this link!
The Self-Promoter
There’s always that individual who seemingly has a never-ending supply of wine tours, yoga studio gigs, or self-help seminars to share, and they can't resist posting about it constantly. Every time you open the chat, it’s them with a cheeky advertisement and their face prominently displayed alongside some vaguely artistic stock images. Their studio might not look as appealing as advertised, nor is the experience as harmonious as they claim, but there’s marketing material everywhere.
The Link and Vanish Ninja
This person is the go-to for links. They always have a URL, a pinned location, a Taobao product, or a Dianping listing handy... there’s always a link. Whatever you ask, they'll provide a link for it. They seem well-connected in the city and likely have the best recommendations, but there's a catch: they disappear right after sharing the link, as if swallowed by thin air.
The Voice Note Vocalist
Sometimes we’re grateful that WeChat limits voice notes to one minute, but that doesn’t deter our beloved vocalist. They can talk for ages, leaving you scrambling for the important points. They're enthusiastic and vocal, pouring out information as if there’s no tomorrow, and you’re left sifting through the meanings of ten voice messages, each 56 seconds long.
The Drama Queen
This person thrives on conflict. They don’t need to put in much effort; their words ignite chaos! They’ll drop a controversial opinion in the group and watch the ensuing firestorm. That new restaurant everyone loves? They detest it. That recent exhibition in 798? They’ll label it overrated. Whatever the subject, they’ll oppose it and then recline in their dramatic throne, leaving a trail of triggered notifications and a barrage of unread messages for you to sift through.
The Sticker Fanatic
This individual communicates through stickers and emojis, treating them as a language of their own. They’ve mastered the art of stickers and add new ones frequently. If someone has unfortunate news, expect a sad sleeping beauty sticker. If someone mentions hunger, get ready for a hungry panda sticker. If there’s a wedding announcement? A twirling sleeping beauty sticker will appear.
The Event Enthusiast
This person is eager to attend every event happening around them, often attempting to be at multiple places at once. They share all the events occurring in Beijing as if they have an abundance of free time. They want to be at the Bird’s Nest in the evening and then meet up at a club in Sanlitun. They are the go-to person when you have no weekend plans.
The Lurker
This individual, reminiscent of times gone by, rarely participates. Although they've been part of the group since 2018, nobody has ever heard them utter a word. They silently observe from the sidelines with an air of detachment and seem too composed for the rest of the group. Don’t bother trying to engage them; they’ve moved beyond your reach.
The Roman Admin
These members command respect and run the group with authority. They swiftly deal with unsolicited advertisements and maintain control over the chat. They resemble savvy CEOs, but instead of business attire, they sport slacks and reading glasses. They establish the rules and operate fluidly, leaving no room for disruption. Cross them, and you risk removal from the group.
Random Auntie/Uncle Nobody Added
Out of nowhere, there’s always that one random aunt or uncle who enters the group and sends the cutest, overly sentimental blessing stickers during holidays. They can be amusing at times, but occasionally they send messages that even the best translation tools cannot comprehend.
So, which WeChat personality do you identify with? (Or which one drives you up the wall?) Share your thoughts in the comments – we may have overlooked a few!
READ: WeChat Groups 101: Finding Your Beijing Crew
Images: Canva, Free Pik, Giphy
Living in Beijing involves navigating WeChat groups and encountering their memorable personalities.
