When you’re studying online, your contact with peers and facilitators will be through web-based forums and discussion boards. It’s worth making sure that you’re coming across the way you intend to and that you’re a positive addition to your online community.
Here are a few Dos and Don’ts of “netiquette” — or online communication practices — to bear in mind the next time you log on or join in.
Digital correspondence is notoriously vague and subject to (mis)interpretation. If you’re not careful, you could easily come across as rude, angry or sarcastic, even when that’s not your intention. Re-read your comments before posting them to make sure the tone isn’t negative.
Netiquette refers to proper online conduct and etiquette when communicating via technology. With so much of our interaction now occurring virtually, practicing good netiquette is essential. From email and social media to forums and online gaming, we must navigate communicating effectively and respectfully.
This article explores tips and best practices for exercising sound netiquette across common digital platforms. Understanding netiquette helps us maximize the benefits of technology while minimizing antisocial behavior and misunderstandings.
Why Netiquette Matters
Technology makes instant communication easier than ever. However, the anonymity and lack of face-to-face cues online can sometimes encourage rude, aggressive or insensitive behavior that would be unlikely in person.
Practicing netiquette enhances the user experience by making interactions more considerate and constructive. Additional benefits include
- Reducing misunderstandings and conflicts
- Increasing clarity and comprehension
- Making discussions more inclusive and respectful
- Enabling people with diverse backgrounds to connect
- Maximizing productivity and minimizing distractions
- Building goodwill, rapport and community
Ignoring netiquette can damage relationships, reputations and public perception. Skilled netiquette demonstrates emotional intelligence, self-awareness and citizenship.
Core Principles of Netiquette
These overarching values provide the foundation for all netiquette best practices
- Use empathy – Remember there are real people behind each avatar. Be kind.
- Respect diversity – Don’t discriminate based on race, gender, age, orientation or disability.
- Keep an open mind – Respect opinions different from your own. Value diversity of thought.
- Use discretion – Do not share private information without permission.
- Avoid assumptions – Take care not to misinterpret tone or intentions without context cues.
- Be patient – Remember people connect from different cultures, time zones and at their own pace.
- Use diplomacy – Disagree politely. Don’t insult or attack others personally for their views.
- Obey the rules – Follow guidelines and policies for each online platform you use.
- Give people the benefit of the doubt – Unless clearly inflammatory, don’t assume bad intent behind an awkward message.
With these principles as a compass, let’s explore netiquette dos and don’ts for common online settings.
Email Netiquette
Email remains a ubiquitous digital communication tool. Practice these email etiquette tips:
DO:
- Use clear subject lines
- Include salutation and closing
- Proofread before sending
- Reply promptly if needed
- Use BCC for mass messages
- Send attachments in common formats
DON’T:
- Write in ALL CAPS
- Reply angrily without waiting
- Forward private email without permission
- Put off responding indefinitely
- Send spam or chain letters
Additionally, gauge tone carefully in email. With no body language cues, written text alone can seem brusque or negative unintentionally. Proofread emails before sending.
Social Media Netiquette
Social platforms like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram require their own netiquette strategies:
DO:
- Post valuable content and insights
- Credit others for their work
- Keep personal details private
- Follow brands selectively
- Report offensive content
DON’T:
- Spread misinformation or “fake news”
- Cyberbully, troll or pick fights
- Overshare personal details
- Post multiple repetitive updates
- Violate copyrights
Post tactfully, especially about controversial issues. Remember social media is public. Privacy settings provide some control.
Message Board Netiquette
When participating in online forums and message boards:
DO:
- Review existing discussions before posting
- Add value and stay on topic
- Quote prior messages for context
- Report abuse to moderators
DON’T:
- Make personal attacks
- Write in all capital letters
- Share links without context
- Troll or deliberately provoke
Stick to the rules and be patient with newcomers. Don’t share advice without proper expertise. Welcome dissenting opinions with maturity.
Online Gaming Netiquette
For collaborative online games, sound gaming etiquette is key:
DO:
- Play fairly and contribute to team efforts
- Offer guidance gently to new players
- Respect opponents and fellow players
- Keep chat focused on game topics
DON’T:
- Cheat or exploit game mechanics
- Spam repetitive text/audio messages
- Harass, insult or discriminate against players
- Inappropriately share out-of-game details
Good sportsmanship makes gaming more fun for all. Don’t be a sore loser or arrogant winner.
As technology blurs boundaries between professional and social interaction, practicing netiquette becomes increasingly important. By treating others respectfully online, we create more inclusive digital spaces that unlock the full potential of human connection.
The guidelines and principles above provide a strong ethical framework. However, remember that cultural nuances exist. Strive to communicate sensitively and suspend quick judgment if unsure.
With care, empathy and wisdom, we can harness technology’s reach while minimizing its risks. In an age when physical distance no longer prevents sharing ideas globally, netiquette helps us do so constructively, democratically and in the spirit of shared progress for all.
Be generous & collaborative
Don’t chime in only when you need help or advice. Be an active participant in your online community. Take the time to read and respond to other people’s posts, and provide encouragement and information when you can.
Keep it short & sweet
Be clear and concise in what you post.
Social Media Etiquette: Online Communication Do’s & Don’ts
What are etiquette rules on the Internet?
To avoid future problems, it is essential to follow etiquette rules on the internet which is also known as netiquette. If you don’t know much about netiquettes, here are some proper do’s and don’ts for proper netiquette. 1. Do be respectful Remember there are real people behind those screens and not everyone have the same opinions as you.
What is netiquette etiquette?
Netiquette is a made-up word from the words net and etiquette. Netiquette thus describes the rules of conduct for respectful and appropriate communication on the internet. Netiquette is often referred to as etiquette for the internet. These are not legally binding rules, but recommended rules of etiquette.
What are the 10 basic rules of netiquette?
Here are the 10 basic rules of netiquette: 1. Represent yourself well Self-presentation is crucial online, because of the lack of visual cues. Your word and punctuation choices matter, so make every stroke count. To make friends or develop networks, be friendly, polite, and engaging— just as you would be in real life. All caps = yelling.
What is the Golden Rule of netiquette?
The golden rule of netiquette boils down to one basic guideline: Do not do or say online what you would not do or say offline. Before posting a comment, status update, or image, ask yourself if you would feel comfortable sharing the same thing face-to-face. If not, don’t post it.
