Does response time actually affect how your profile performs?

Noticed the same pattern myself, quicker replies do seem to keep conversations going longer.

Been trying to reply within a few hours where I can. Not sure if it makes a real difference or if I'm just imagining a pattern that isn't there.

Can't say for certain but it feels like it helps. People seem to stick around in the conversation more when the reply comes quickly.

I go through phases where I'm slower and it definitely correlates with fewer messages sticking, for what that's worth.