How to Avoid Being "Flamed"

"Flaming" refers to the berating of a person in an Internet newsgroup, Web forum or e-mail list by others in the group. Usually, a flame consists of numerous nasty e-mail messages and is provoked, perhaps unwittingly, by its victim's posts. Follow these simple steps to ensure that your Internet communications are friendly and flame retardant.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet Access
• E-mail Software

1. Review the forum's FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) to familiarize yourself with the rules and procedures of the discussion.

2. Scan recent postings to make sure your topic hasn't already been addressed. Newsgroup and Web forum regulars generally find redundant posts extremely irritating (particularly if the topic is addressed in the group's FAQ).

3. Post messages that are relevant to the topic of the forum.

4. Avoid posting advertisements, even if they're related. These are often irritating.

5. Post messages with substance. Avoid posting messages like "Me too" and other empty, uninteresting remarks.

6. Make sure your subject headings are clear and concise. For example, if you want to verify a new e-mail virus alert on an urban legends message board, type "New e-mail virus alert" instead of "Is this real?"

7. Avoid petty insults and irrelevant banter.

8. Respond to a post via e-mail if your message is directed toward an individual rather than all users of the group. Remember that all posts are visible to all users.

9. Avoid flaming back if you're flamed. If you made a mistake to provoke the flame, apologize to the group.

on 2/15/2006 If you start off your post by saying something along the lines of, "Hi everyone, I'm new to this forum, so please take it easy on me," or "Hi everyone, I did a search on this topic and I didn't see it anywhere, but forgive me if I missed it and therefore sound redundant but..." People tend to be a lot nicer if they see you're a "n00b," but trying.

on 11/22/2005 It's easy when you're writing rather than speaking, especially to people who don't know you personally, to be unintentionally unclear. Sometimes what you write can be interpreted more than one way. Sometimes the words you choose "sound" different to readers than you intended. It's sometimes a good idea to read your post out loud, to see if you catch anything that might sound funny to other ears--especially if it's on a controversial topic!

on 11/22/2005 Only you can control how you respond to something. If you lose your cool, take a break, have a bite and go surfing. Don't respond in anger. The rage of hatred can inspire highly creative yet vicious writing that you will later regret. Don't fan the flames - walk away from the fire. And remember: a mature person will apologize. Enjoy your time on the www and in life!

on 11/22/2005 Before asking any technical questions, do a search for answers online. Find out if this is something very basic, and if it is, don't ask about it on a newsgroup. Many computer experts are very touchy about being asked what they consider "lamer" questions.

on 11/22/2005 Stay cool and to yourself be true.