This often courses misunderstanding or confusion among foreign men. They can receive letters from Lena, Aliena, Elena and think that there are several girls but, in fact, it can be only one lady. Choosing different forms of a name you can express all kinds of emotions. The full form is used in official papers, in formal relationships and with unfamiliar people. If you write the first letter to a young girl, you may use a shortened form from the very beginning, but if you are addressing to an aged woman it would be more polite to use the full form.
Shortened forms are neutral and used in relationships with friends.
Use shortened forms after you get acquainted with your ladies. Forms of affection. These forms convey real care and affection. Your ladies will be excited to hear such a name from you. You may use this form to add warmth to your relationships.