Users of online and digital technologies such as the internet, email, and chatrooms adhere to a set of unofficial rules for good behavior and politeness known as netiquette.
The term “netiquette” comes from the word “etiquette,” which refers to the general rules or conventions of proper and courteous behavior in social settings and situations. Being courteous and considerate in online settings such as Internet message boards and personal email must be practiced at all times.
Here are 10 rules and reminders for online communication and behavior that have been summarized from Virginia Shea’s book, “Netiquette”.
Rule #1: Remember the person you are talking to.
When you are not interacting with others in person, it is easy to misunderstand or be rude to them. Before you send or post something, consider whether you would say it to the person face to face.
Rule #2: Act as if you’re interacting with them personally.
Cyberspace is governed by the same ethical standards and laws that govern our society. This includes harassment and bullying, as well as copyright laws and privacy concerns.
Rule #3: Know where you are in cyberspace.
The level of acceptable behavior varies depending on the domain. For example, the way we interact with our friends may not be appropriate in a school or work setting. This principle also applies to online environments.
Rule #4: Respect other people’s time and bandwidth.
24 hours no longer seem enough between school and work, social life, chores, errands to run, and maintaining one’s health. It is critical to avoid squandering time by delivering nonsense or unsolicited information.
Rule #5: Make yourself look good online.
People have a natural desire to be liked in general, even on social networking sites. In this age of media information, you can make a good impression by being a responsible contributor.
Rule #6: Share expert knowledge.
The internet is an excellent medium for disseminating useful information. It can, however, be used to disseminate false information and distortions. If you have a lot of knowledge on a particular topic or subject, don’t be afraid to share it online in a helpful and accurate manner.
Rule #7: Help keep flame wars under control.
When someone expresses a strongly held opinion without holding back their emotions, they are said to be “flaming”.
Rule #8: Respect other people’s privacy.
The Internet is a shared space. Remember not to share personal or professional information about others that could get them or you into trouble.
Rule #9: Don’t abuse your power.
This rule applies to those with more authority on the internet, such as experts, designers, system administrators, or even hackers. Power should never be used for harming or exploiting those who are less powerful or knowledgeable.
Rule #10: Be forgiving of other people’s mistakes.
“Nobody is perfect.” It’s true that people, even online, make mistakes. As a result, be forgiving of others’ errors. It is not only good netiquette, but also basic good manners, to forgive others for their mistakes.
