They Called Me an Idiot! A Review of Web Etiquette

Alvin Apple — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 03:40:15 EST

Recently I received an email from someone who had read one of myarticles online. This reader told me that, while reading myarticle, she had noticed that I had used "their" where I needed"they're." A simple mistake, but one that could have beenavoided with a little better proofreading on my part. I wouldhave been pleased to receive this reminder to be more astute, butthe message didn't stop there. The reader went on to call me,among other things, an idiot.Now we all make mistakes, and we all have our pet peeves. (Minehappens to be dawdlers.) Clearly this reader's peeve is themixing up of homonyms, and my mistake made me a criminal in hereyes. Thus, hidden behind the anonymity of email, she attacked.As a frequently published author, I am used to criticism, andalways open to a reminder to pay more attention, even if thatreminder stings a little at the time. I am not, however, nor doI think I will ever be, open to being called an idiot. Was Iupset by this person? Mildly. Do I think there's a problem withweb etiquette in general? Absolutely. The insulting readerwasn't doing anything different than so many other self-appointedweb critics do all the time.The basic problem with web etiquette lies in the inherentanonymity of e-correspondence. The fact that we can't seesomeone, or hear their voice, does not entitle us to treat themrudely. Anonymity makes us bold, and some of us tend to forgetour manners when sending emails or posting on discussion boards.I have a feeling that if this reader had been speaking to me faceto face the word "idiot" would never have been invoked.Think about it, when dealing with mistakes or service problems inperson, we always try to be polite while still getting our pointacross, right? That is a basic social rule, but one that hasbeen all but thrown away on the web. I have read atrociousthings online that I believe never would have been spoken aloudhad the people involved been in the same room together.Let's try to bring good old fashioned manners to the web. Whencomposing an email involving a complaint or a correction, writeit as though you will be reading it aloud to the person you'rewriting to. Yes, you want to get your point across, but do sowithout being nasty. When posting on a discussion board, try tokeep a conversational, even-tempered tone, even if someone hasattacked your statement or question. Rise above the situationand keep things polite and decorous. If we all remember ourmanners, the web can be a much friendlier, and more professionalplace.

About the Author

Alvin Apple helps everyday people start businesses they willenjoy. Then he teaches them how to succeed. Read all hishelpful strategies, including his latest article, "Use Hands-onMarketing to Sell Like Crazy" at http://AlvinApple.com. ReachAlvin at 801-328-9006 or alvin@drnunley.com.

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They Called Me an Idiot! A Review of Web Etiquette