As the world becomes more technologically advanced, increasing numbers of people are using online forms of communication such as blogs, wikis, forums, chat rooms and social networking sites to share information and expertise with each other. However, it is important to take extra care when you are interacting electronically, as you don't have the extra benefits of body language or vocal intonation to help you get your point across. Most people will get to know you (and form opinions of you) by what you write and how well you write it. These tips will enable you to participate in online communities effectively.
Firstly, remember you are talking to real people so the normal rules of social interaction apply.
Don't assume that others will interpret your message in the same way you do. It is difficult to convey subtle meaning, especially humour or sarcasm, in online communications. Consider rewording your message if you think there is a chance others will misunderstand and/or be offended by it. You can also use emoticons (or ‘smileys’) to help signal your emotions and avoid misunderstanding. See using the button at the top of this page for some of the most commonly used emoticons.
Always use proper spelling, capitalisation, punctuation and grammar and avoid writing in all capitals – this is the online equivalent of SHOUTING! it is also harder to read.
Send your messages to the right place: direct personal exchanges to a user's mailbox (e.g. email) not to a public forum and don't make contributions containing personal comments about other users and their views in public forums.
Don't copy/forward private messages to another person without the author's explicit permission. This is a breach of confidentiality.
Don't present your opinions as facts. Always acknowledge other peoples' opinions, even when you disagree, and provide clear, thoughtful support for your views.
Respect the rights of other users to participate in ways which are free from harassment and intimidation and don't use the remoteness of the recipients as an excuse to communicate in an anti-social manner.
Flaming (comments intended to abuse or insult) and personal abuse are entirely inappropriate. Avoid getting involved in flame wars by neither posting nor responding to incendiary topics.
Lurk before you post. Lurking is when you regularly read message boards, blogs, wikis or forums but do not contribute. Lurking will ensure that you are visiting the most appropriate community and will give you a better idea of the kind of topics people post about, making it less likely that you will upset anyone when you do contribute
Check for existing topics/posts before starting new threads, by scanning through posts or using the 'Search' function.
Quote relevant messages when responding to make it easier for readers to locate the original post/topic/message you are referring to.
Ensure that any contributions made further the aims of the forum/community and are appropriate to the discussion.
Don't 'flood': flooding occurs when a user posts the same message over and over on a thread and is very irritating to other users.
Check the rules. Most online communities have 'house rules' so search for 'Rules', 'FAQs' or 'Help' to find out what is permitted and what is not. If you are the creator or administrator you will need to create these rules for your site.
Don't contribute illegal/offensive material. The law relating to written communication applies equally to online communication – this includes copyright, obscenity, fraud, discrimination and defamation. You should therefore avoid sending inappropriate messages as you could be breaking the law. The Website Law site has some excellent guidance and links where you can find further information and clarification on legal issues relating to online communication.
Above all, think before you write – the internet is an immediate medium making communication quick and easy: as soon as you post something it will be there for all to see – and it may be difficult to delete or amend.
Reference: https://app.goodpractice.net/
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