I moderate a handful of art groups, and generally belong to 15-20 at any given time. It takes a lot of behind the scenes work to keep a good group running, so most groups have a simple set of rules that are sent to each member as she joins. No matter how complete these rules are, or how often members are reminded of them, it never ceases to amaze me how often people just do whatever the heck they want, and then act as though they’ve never heard not to.
Since I am regularly frustrated by these idiots, I give you, only half in jest, my list of group do’s and don’ts:
| Do read the group’s description on the home page before you join. Then read it again. Make note of any rules or instructions written there, and follow them. | Don’t join the group without reading the description. You might miss something important—like instructions on how to become a member, or how not to get tossed out of the group. |
| Do expect to receive a couple of emails upon joining. Read them. They contain information about the group. | Don’t delete the emails without reading them. There’s probably something in there you should know before you post and make an idiot of yourself. |
| Do read through the group’s message archives after joining. Try to catch up on whatever topics have been discussed lately. | Don’t post to the group without reading a few messages first. You may post about something that has already been discussed to death, which will certainly not start you off on the right foot. |
| Do read through the group’s Files section, if there’s anything posted. Often, information about the basics of the group’s topic can be found there. | Don’t ask basic questions without checking the Files. Chances are, your answers are already posted there, and your question has already been asked a thousand times. |
| Do speak politely when you ask a question of the group. A good question:
“Could someone tell me where to find information on how to ________?” |
Don’t be a jerk when you’re asking for information. A bad question: “I have no clue what ___________ is. Somebody send me information so I know what you’re talking about!” |
| Do remember proper netiquette when writing messages to the group. | DON’T TYPE IN ALL CAPS, BECAUSE YOU LOOK LIKE YOU’RE SCREAMING AT EVERYONE!!!!! |
| Do learn the name of the list moderator, and her email address. | Don’t ever, ever, ever post this message to the group: “WOULD THE LIST MODERATOR PLEASE CONTACT ME SO I CAN ASK A QUESTION!!!” |
| Do be polite to the list moderators. They are volunteering their time and energy to create a place for you to discuss this topic. | Don’t demand things from the moderators. They are not your personal servants. |
| Do email a moderator privately if you have a question or concern about a group policy. | Don’t challenge the list policies or the moderators on list. You will get your butt tossed out of the group. |
| Do be aware that some groups have restrictions about types of posts, such as commercial posts or ads. Do follow the group’s policies regarding these types of posts. | Don’t post an ad for your business, and then yell at the moderator when she reminds you commercial posts are not allowed. If you posted unintentionally, or are confused by the policy, don’t waste the opportunity to clarify the issue. |
| Do be aware that some groups have restrictions about the sizes of files or photos that can be uploaded. Do make yourself aware of these restrictions, and follow them. | Don’t upload massive files or photos, and then complain to the group when they’re removed. Don’t upload them over and over again. Don’t be surprised when your upload privilages are revoked. |
April 17, 2008
Awesome page
How I wish half of my group members would read it!!