Technology Etiquette is not Device Dependent

Technology etiquette, often called digital etiquette or netiquette, encompasses a set of guidelines and norms that govern how individuals should behave and interact with each other when using various forms of technology and digital communication.

Is technology etiquette, whether it be a PC, smartphone, or tablet, for example, any different than Email Etiquette? No, not really. Knowledge and courtesy are not device-dependent.

It is important to ensure respectful and effective communication in the digital age, and technology etiquette covers various aspects of online behavior, including email, social media, messaging apps, video conferencing, and more.

Why Technology Etiquette is Important

Maintains Respectful Communication: Good technology etiquette promotes respectful and considerate communication. It helps individuals interact online with the same level of respect and courtesy as in face-to-face interactions. This is crucial for maintaining positive relationships, both personal and professional.
Prevents Misunderstandings: Clear and appropriate communication online helps to prevent misunderstandings. Using proper language and tone and avoiding sarcasm or aggressive behavior can reduce the likelihood of misinterpretation and conflict.
Protects Privacy: Respecting the privacy of others is a key aspect of technology etiquette. This includes not sharing personal information without consent, not invading someone’s digital space, and respecting their digital boundaries.
Encourages Responsible Sharing: Technology etiquette encourages responsible sharing of content, which is particularly important in the age of social media. It promotes sharing accurate information, citing sources when necessary, and being mindful of the impact of your posts on others.
Reduces Cyberbullying and Harassment: Proper online behavior helps prevent cyberbullying, harassment, and other forms of online abuse. Respectful communication and reporting inappropriate behavior are vital in combating these issues.
Enhances Online Collaboration: Technology etiquette is essential for effective online collaboration in professional settings. Clear communication, adherence to schedules, and the use of collaboration tools appropriately can lead to better productivity and teamwork.
Supports a Positive Online Reputation: Maintaining a positive online reputation is crucial, both personally and professionally. Good technology etiquette helps individuals and organizations build and maintain a positive digital image.
Facilitates Effective Online Learning: In educational settings, technology etiquette helps students and educators engage in productive online learning. It encourages participation, respect for instructors and peers, and responsible use of educational technology.
Adapts to Various Platforms: Different online platforms may have their own rules and norms. Understanding and following technology etiquette on various platforms ensures you can navigate the digital world effectively.
Cultivates a Civil Online Environment: Individuals contribute to a more civil and pleasant online environment by following technology etiquette. This is important for a healthy digital society and the overall well-being of its members.

Technology etiquette is important because it fosters respectful, effective, and positive online interactions, which is essential in today’s digitally connected world. By adhering to these guidelines, we all can help create a more harmonious and constructive online environment for ourselves and others.

Customary Code of Polite Behavior

For example, one topic I am contacted about is checking and responding to emails and texts when others feel it is inappropriate. This includes at the dinner table, in church, during meetings, conversing with someone else — while driving a 4,100-pound automobile.

When you take a moment to think about it, etiquette is a way to behave when taking into consideration how your actions (or lack thereof) could affect others.

et-i-quette
noun: the customary code of polite behavior in society or among members of a particular profession or group.

Some would say our “customary code of polite behavior” is something from the past. That technology has generally changed etiquette and does not apply to our devices. I don’t buy that – nor should you. I prefer to believe that polite behavior is the glue that holds society together.

Courtesy never goes out of style. On or off-line.

Thinking of others, not just ourselves, is not old-fashioned. If it is, we have bigger problems than email, cellphone, or tablet etiquette.

What do you think it would say about a person who never considers the potential negative ramifications of their choice of actions at a particular point in time? Inconsiderate? Ignorant? Daft? Actions like when to answer your phone and respond to emails or texts are your choice.

Like most things, just because you can doesn’t mean you do. Sadly, all too many think that with technology, anything goes. They couldn’t be more wrong.

So, how exactly do you know what to do and when? By learning and using your discretion.

dis-cre-tion
noun:

the quality of behaving or speaking in such a way as to avoid causing offense or revealing private information.

the freedom to decide what should be done in a particular situation.

Technology Etiquette Does Not Change

Regardless of your device or platform, you must be aware of how to use technology correctly, with consideration for others. This means not answering emails or texts at the family dinner table. It means following the rules on platforms and forums. Thinking about how your actions or words will impact others.

Turn your phone off during the sermon in church. Business texting etiquette applies in a business meeting where your full attention is assumed. Do not have your smartphone out or in use — pay attention.

To hide behind technology as an excuse to not be courteous because others may not or that you are not face-to-face is self-serving at best. To reply to emails or texts on your cellphone when common courtesy and decorum dictate your full attention be given to those you are with clearly reflects your lack of common courtesy.

Courtesy, discretion, and perception are in your control to control. Without courtesy, the perception you will leave in your wake will tell people exactly what they need to know about you — and it most likely won’t be positive. What a shame…