Computer Etiquette
What is the right way to behave as a member of FYC when I receive an email or a 'flirt'?
The following email is a clear example of how internet etiquette can affect people:
"Dear Forever Young Club,
The reason I do not wish to continue my membership is people are not responding to my "flirts". I expect at least a "not interested" reply as a common courtesy between members, and that is not happening. Therefore I do not want to waste my time waiting around and feeling frustrated and hurt any further."
Regards ..(name withheld).
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"Dear (Name withheld)
Thanks for your email. I completely appreciate your frustration.... As a site we feel all members need take individual responsibility to show common respect and courtesy to all other members and that everyone deserves and courteous answer, whether they are interested in that person or not."
"We will actually be publishing an article in the next newsletter addressing your issue with non-responses, and we hope you will come back to us to try again soon!"
Cheers……….Danielle
Computer etiquette is not all that different from basic etiquette on a personal level.
The only thing that is different is that dealing with emails and web sites there is a different sense of requirement and time.
You are generally not dealing with someone on an 'instant reaction' basis, but you are still dealing with someone's feelings, and respect and consideration are just as important.
A good basic rule of thumb is to behave as you would like to be treated yourself. Ask yourself these few key questions:
- How would I feel if I didn't receive acknowledgement for an email or 'flirt'?
Would I prefer to be ignored if they weren't interested , or would I rather be given a gentle let-down so that I can move on?
- How would I feel if someone doesn't want to communicate with me?
When I don't receive a response I don't know whether the person has just ignored me, or whether they are away, or haven't checked their messages. At least when I have an answer – good or bad! I will know where I stand.
- As a member of an internet club should I have to worry about etiquette?
Whether you are a member of a club or not, common courtesy and manners will always reap you more rewards. Computer internet communication is no different, ultimately you are still dealing with people.
There are some key things that you need know in order not to potentially hurt or offend others:
Always behave and write as you would like to be written to.
If someone has shown interest in you by either sending you a 'flirt' or an email, through the website, always show them the courtesy of acknowledging them. Our standard responses cover both encouraging 'yes, let's talk' and 'no-thanks' answers.
As you would with your mobile or home phone - always check your messages.
If you are a member of FYC, there are sure to be people trying to communicate with you.
Common courtesy dictates that you take the time to check your mailbox, so that you know whether someone is trying to get in touch with you.
It won't take long to send a reply.
If you are not going to be able to get to a computer for a while, put a message on your profile with some dates indicating when you will be back and 'on the air' again. This way other members browsing the search pages will see that you're not available for their attention for a while.
Communication will always result in better understanding all round, so try to make your profile as real as possible, and try to be as clear as possible about what you are looking for in a potential 'match'.
Remember FYC is a social networking site, so don't be too quick to say no. Some people may only be looking for some common interests and a bit of internet friendship, and a happy email or chat on your computer some lonely night might be just the thing to brighten your spirits!
Cheers,
Cheeky Charmer!
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