What the Heck is Lurking?

Lurking is the online term for staying in the background and watching, before participating. Why should you be a lurker?

When this gig started it was so much about community, and it still is with more of a commercial slant. You probably frequent several sites or “communities” where folks with like minds and interests hang out.

There is Twitter, FaceBook, forums, message and discussion boards and mailing lists for almost every topic of interest one can think of. These groups are communities and get to know each other, by e-mail address or handle name.

Lurking allows you to get a feel for the community that you would like to participate in. You may find while lurking that the group is not the type of folks or may not have the type of discussions you want to participate in.

To get a feel for the group and whether you think it will be a good fit for you to join in is accomplished by lurking. You don’t want to blurt in, ask a question, make a demand or offer information without having an idea of the intent, tone and personality of the group. They may not appreciate you busting in and some may be nicer than others in letting you know so.

After lurking and determining you do want to join in the conversation, always include a brief and humble introduction of yourself to the group before you add your comments, questions or information.

For more info, check out my article on Message Board and Forum Tips.

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