NETIQUETTE

"Netiquette" is simply a combination of the words "network" and "etiquette". Originally used to describe the rules surrounding Usenet newsgroups, netiquette now refers to the widely accepted do's and don'ts for using any type of online discussion group.

It is essential that new users, or "newbies", are familiar with the netiquette of a group before joining in the discussion; otherwise, they might get "flamed" (criticized and ridiculed by established group members).

The easiest way to avoid getting flamed is to spend time observing and reading the group's posted messages before attempting to join the discussion. Simply "lurking" (reading messages but not posting your own) in a particular group will give you a good sense of the group's personality. This is also a good way to ensure that a particular group will really fit your interests.

When you are ready to join in the discussion, do not simply post a general message along the lines of, "Hi I'm new here and just wanted to drop in and say hello!" Post a message asking for specific advice, or introduce an original thought or comment to the discussion. A boring, generic positing with headers like "Help" or "Hire Me!" will be ignored at best, and will get you flamed at worst.

General guidelines to follow in professional discussion groups:

• Write in full and complete sentences, and be sure that all spelling, punctuation, grammar, and capitalization is correct .

• Do not type messages in all capital letters because that is the online equivalent of SHOUTING.

• Do not use "emoticons" such as :) (happy face), or :( (frown), or common abbreviations like BTW (By The Way) and IMHO (In My Humble Opinion) which are commonly used in recreational discussion groups. These types of cutesy shorthand are out of place in a professional discussion group, and if you want to be taken seriously, do not use them.

• Use your best manners. Respect and be tolerant of others' ideas and opinions.

Taken from Adams Electronic Job Search Almanac 1997

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