Online etiquette, also known as “netiquette,” is simple rules and guidelines that outline acceptable ways of behaving in online transactions and interactions.
With time we have heard of the never-ending cases of cyberbullying, and this is because we have given leverage to online users and have forgotten some of the essential online manners.
It is highly recommended that people observe netiquette, especially now with everything changing digital. A safe online space ensures a calm, respectful and positive environment for interactions with fellow online users.
Following online etiquette means you know how to show respect when writing emails, participating in online classes, or interacting on social media platforms. Showing respect entails protecting the privacy of yourself and of others.
In social media spaces where every user is opinionated, communication tends to come with certain anonymity that does not exist when talking to someone face to face.
People tend to have more strength to say what they need to say behind spaces where they cannot be seen. Whether face-to-face or online, respect for people’s opinions is essential.
There are ways we can ensure healthy communication between our formal and our social spaces.
Here is a bit of Online Etiquette to ensure we have healthy online spaces.
- It is important to put forth your thoughts and ideas without disrespecting or being rude to someone by choosing words carefully while speaking or posting a message. Respecting the opinions of your chat counterparts and expressing constructive criticism ensures positive growth in communication and interaction.
- While posting a message, avoid texting using exclamations and capital letters unnecessarily because it can be taken as aggressive communication. Keep good and pure intention while reading and posting a message. Some people send messages to bring people down without thinking of the impact it will have on them. It is essential to know that the person you are responding to is not a computer but a human, just like you.
- People have different opinions, and in online spaces like these, people are bound to disagree on some things. Remain friendly and respectful even when you disagree.
- Respect the privacy of others. Avoid forwarding information sent to you without the sender’s consent. Also, ensure the information you pass across is true, accurate, and timely.
- Only send information that is helpful and of meaning to people. Avoid wasting people’s time by sending unnecessary information.
- Note that messages cut across people during different times. Understanding that there’s limited receptivity of information allows time for encoding and decoding the message before you can quickly request a response.
- Sarcasm is not always perceived as so by everyone, which can be subjective in some areas. Conversely, it is allowed in friendship circles where banter and fun are accepted.
- Knowing and understanding social spaces that work for you is also good. For instance, being on platforms such as Twitter with heavily opinionated people can overwhelm you if you don’t know how to handle both positive and negative criticism.
- Lastly, remember the internet never forgets. Do not say, write or post things that will be used against you in the future.
