In the old days yes. Now it's all about Facebook. If you don't have Facebook, you're nothing. Apparently.
Perhaps, but I consider the fast typing (if pressured) a good thing as it gives you some training on how to type correctly and quickly. Assuming you're not 1 of dem ppl who type like dis. r u?
I prefer one solid IM, I have both YIM and AIM but haven't used them in years. I tried using Trillian but wasn't feeling it personally. Give in a get it, just to see how you find it. It's not a permanent commitment, if you don't like it you don't have to use it ever again. Plus you get to play some lovely games against your contacts.