A site visitor writes: In informal communications through a game message board I frequent, a man I helped in another country with some of the questions he posted replied to me to thank me and then he asked about my age(!) and for a photo of me. I said I was glad to help and that I was sixteen. … [Read more...]
Always Read the TOS?
TOS stands for Terms of Service I know, I know, they are a mile long with teeny-weenie type filled with legal mumbo-jumbo. That's why most of us don't read the TOS before signing up for services or websites. We know we probably should make the effort so we are informed. And to ensure there … [Read more...]
Email Autoresponder Etiquette
Email autoresponders, also known as automatic replies or away/vacation messages are used quite often without a full understanding of how and when they should be used. While this email tool has many effective and useful applications, there are also times when using an autoresponder is not … [Read more...]
What Happens Online, Stays Online…
Live in such a way that you would not be ashamed to sell your parrot to the town gossip. - Will Rogers I read an article recently that some onliners may have to literally change their names because so much of what they posted online, particularly in their younger years. would not be viewed as … [Read more...]
Ban Opinionated Signature Files?
A concerned site visitor writes: I've read your section on netiquette as it pertains to sig files, but I wonder if you could give me your opinion on the following. On a music mailing-list I'm on, someone has, as a sig, a two sentence statement that is political in nature. At least it's only 2 lines … [Read more...]
What the Heck is Lurking?
Lurking is the online term for staying in the background and watching before participating. Sounds sneaky, right? It really isn't! Why should you be a lurker? When this gig started it was only about community, and it still is with more of a commercial slant. You probably frequent … [Read more...]
What Does Your E-mail Address Say About You?
Perception is the only reality online! Folks will form an opinion about you based on how you use technology. They can tell what is important to you and what isn't by the efforts you make -- or don't make. With many folks starting new businesses to make ends meet, it's time to bring up the … [Read more...]
Have You Been Flamed?
Flaming is basically a very harsh message from one person to another via email. You can also get flamed if you participate on a mailing list, forum, group or discussion board and break the rules (or it is clear you didn't take the time to read them). You'll get flamed when it appears that … [Read more...]
Political Season Spam – Inbox Bullies and Blowhards
Every day through this site I get inquiries about the appropriateness of e-mailing other onliners about what others feel is important. One side has an opinion; knows the other side disagrees and continues to e-mail them on the topic anyway. While everyone has an opinion, that does not mean one … [Read more...]
Forum Etiquette
Proper communication etiquette when on lists, communicating in online groups and forums comes up on a regular basis. Here are some tips to make sure you have a more enjoyable and constructive experience: Review the "Charter" or rules for the group or forum and abide by them. If you don't like … [Read more...]