Guidelines
- Try to keep quoting to a minimum. "Quoting" is repeating text of the message you are replying to. Some quoting is necessary to remind other readers what the thread is about but do try to use good judgement. Quoting the previous writer's signature block or surname list is totally unnecessary.
- Surname lists are okay but please try to limit them to say, half a dozen names. Any more than that and many people just won't read them. Try keeping several small lists and rotate them with each succeeding message.
- Please Remember
- We were ALL new at one point.
- It is unreasonable to think you have only to describe something once and everyone will remember or understand or recall how to do everything correctly from that point on.
- Do not jump to conclusions about the intent of the person who has made a mistake. Assume they are innocent until proven "guilty".
- Read all messages (and other people's responses to them) carefully - twice - before responding.
- Write your response, then set it aside for a bit before sending it. Maybe a bit of time will help to change the perspective a bit.
- Re-read replies or posts you write yourself before sending them. Be sure you are conveying your true meaning and you are communicating positively.
- Remember how hard it can be to convey emotion in writing.
- Keep your tone light and friendly, especially when you are frustrated and/or trying to resolve a problem.
- Show patience.
- Don't bully new subscribers who make mistakes.
- I recommend reading Netiquette Guidelines which provides a minimum set of guidelines for Network Etiquette (Netiquette).