Social Networking - Do You Practice Netiquette
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Over the years, the beauty of the Internet has opened many different doors
pertaining to socializing, networking, and the overall art of communication.
Today, computer users of all ages are exploring the possibilities associated
with chat rooms, discussion boards, forums, and online personals. Sending
emails, instant messaging family and friends, and relaying text messages across
the World Wide Web are also popular forms of contact. Despite the fact that
users are unseen behind the guise of their computer, there is still a written
and unwritten code of conduct that exists about the Internet.
Even in the world of online communication, one may offend, confuse, and
irritate the people they send emails to or speak with in a chat room. Just as
you participate in face-to-face communication, you are often aware of the way
you move your body, execute hand gestures, or raise your voice. When contacting
others across the Internet, there are also certain messages conveyed through the
way you type out your thoughts. One of the most irritating online habits
involves the use of all-caps when typing to others. Not only are long strings of
capped words a strain on the eyes to read, but is often viewed as "shouting."
When typing emails or chatting with others while online, spelling and grammar
really does count in not only making people see your side of things, but also
promoting intelligent and free-flowing conversation. Usually, glaring spelling
mistakes cause a distraction and confusion in correspondences. Additionally,
just because you attempt to avoid making spelling errors and lapses in grammar –
doesn’t mean you have the right to criticize others for their poor use of the
English language. It is highly suggested to ignore the spelling mistakes of
others and concentrate on the way you communicate while online.
Additional email etiquette rules include the avoidance of sending or
forwarding junk mail and Internet hoaxes, forwarding virus warnings (which are
sometimes hoaxes), replying to all recipients of a collectively sent email, and
sending unnecessarily large attachments.
There are also plenty of "netiquette" issues to recognize when communicating
with others in online communities (chat rooms and forums). One of the first
things to do when joining a chat room, forum, or other online group is
familiarize oneself with the rules or guidelines of the service. This practice
comes in rather handy and helps one avoid any future online confrontations or
misunderstandings.
At all times, your privacy should be protected, as well as other members of
the online community. It is unwise to use full names in chat room
correspondences and is rude to ask the full names of those you come in contact
with. Staying on topic is also a rule of Internet etiquette. For instance, if
you have joined a chat room community regarding model airplanes, it is often
inappropriate to start sharing your marital problems with others. Using
offensive language is warned against and is usually punished (suspension or
ban).
When chatting, it is also suggested to keep messages short and present
information in the most concise manner. Also, a common practice is to use
abbreviations, but not everyone is familiar with the current lingo and this
should be kept in mind – the abbreviation of your words and phrases should be
used sparingly.
Overall, it is suggested to treat communication across the Internet in the
same manner that you like to receive correspondences. Usually, the things that
irritate you are the same actions others dislike as well.
About the Author
Linda Allen is the co-founder of GirlfriendsCafe, a popular social networking
site for women throughout the United States and Canada.
http://www.girlfriendscafe.com
Follow us @Scopulus_News
Article Published/Sorted/Amended on Scopulus 2007-10-31 21:45:55 in Marketing Articles
