Sep 15, 2016

#Module 1: Netiquette

Let’s talk about NETIQUETTE.

What is netiquette? Well, netiquette is a guideline for how you should communicate with others when using the internet. Basically, digital etiquette.

In this blog post, I’m going to talk about two of the more important guidelines of netiquette.

Since internet has become such an important part of our lives, one of the big problems we face is bullying. How you speak with others and how you act when online is an important part of netiquette. People can now hide behind a screen when they call people names, spread rumours, or hurt others in any other way. While speaking with others online, it becomes very easy to forget that there is a person on the receiving end of what you say. What you say could be misunderstood by the reader, or it could be offensive to some others. Since you can’t see or hear how a person is truly reacting to what you say, it’s very important to be careful about what you post. Once it has been put online, it’s not something you can delete. So before you write something online, imagine saying it to that person’s face. Would you still say it?

Another guideline regarding netiquette is making yourself look presentable online. What you do and say while online can be seen and found by almost anyone around the world. Whether it is your ability to write or the topics you choose to talk about, everyone can see it. It is also considered inappropriate to post something containing foul or offensive language. When thinking about not looking bad online, also remember that the people who will likely see what you post would be your friends or your family. And also, let’s not forget your current employer or your future employers. According to The Hiring Site, 48% of employers that look for applicants before hiring have found a reason not to hire that candidate. This could be because they found provocative photographs, evidence of drug use, posts of bad-mouthing others, evidence of poor communication skills, or even comments that discriminate. What you do online with friends and what you post online can affect your future opportunities. All it takes is one bad post to be found, to jeopardize a career opportunity. So why take that risk?

Well, that’s all I have to say for now. I’ll be back with more soon. Until then, don’t forget to follow the Netiquette guidelines!