Netiquette Guidelines

No matter how well you know the rules of netiquette, you will eventually offend someone who doesn't. - Don Rittner

As Internet technology has become more advanced, a majority of Internet users are using social networking, corporate and personal emailing, chatting, and other online communication tools. Since this is a modern method of communication, there are some considerations set which are to be followed by frequent Internet users. These rules and considerations are referred to as 'netiquette', which is an abbreviation to 'network etiquette'. Netiquette rules are essential in following a particular code of conduct when being online.

Internet and Email Netiquette Guidelines

• The first online manner is to be courteous and respectful in whatever communication you are involved in; whether an email, instant chat, or simply an online forum.
• Do not use words and sentences in uppercase. This will give an impression that you are shouting out those words to readers. You also should not color the letters and words red, which shows like you are sending a warning signal in anger.
• When it comes to writing, it is very difficult to understand the exact emotion and feeling of the writer. For this purpose, you should use simple emoticons, which will send out the message with proper expressions.
• You should be brief wherever possible; as in blogs, chat, and even emails. This certainly saves time of the writer as well as the readers.
• Remember that the Internet is a public network which can be used illicitly to obtain personal information. Restrict posting much of your personal details as much as possible. Also, do not post other people's information without proper consent.
• Do not respond to flames and other types of abusive messages. Contact the web administrator instead, for appropriate action.
• One good netiquette is to respond to important emails as soon as you read them.
• In dealing with crucial corporate chain emails, make sure you include all recipients who are related to the subject. This contributes to effective workplace communication.
• Remember that the subject line is as important as the content. Make sure that every email has a subject line to be referred to by readers.
• It is not suggested to forward or send personal or entertainment emails to members in the professional contacts list.
• Try not to use sarcasm or jokes in professional emails.
• Before posting a writing by another person, make sure you have taken permission from the author. Note that publishing another writer's content by your name is plagiarism, hence illegal.
• One of the most ignored guidelines is checking spellings and grammar. It is suggested you use spell-check and proofread your writing before posting it online or in emails to make a good impression.
• It is not at all good to post personal messages in public forums. Give new and useful information in forums, and not repeated information.
• Owing to Internet safety and security, do not respond to or forward spam emails and those from unknown sources.
• Take in mind that the readers of your blogs, forums, chat, and emails are unknown people. Therefore, communicate in a manner that is not too professional or personal.
• Send or forward emails only after knowing the recipient would not mind receiving them.

These are just a few netiquette guidelines for using email and the Internet. The most important guideline is to keep personal information to yourself as much as possible. There are many other guidelines for online classes, emails, chatting, blogging, and posting information in forums. Using good netiquette is necessary to enjoy the Internet in the best and safest way.