Chat Room Etiquette
Chat rooms involve an array of people who log in online in order to communicate with each other and discuss ideas and topics of interest. Reeta Sahoo and Gagan Sahoo, authors of the book Fountain of information technology state that Internet chat has become one of the most popular mediums of communication.
Going onto an online chat room for the first time can be a nerve wrecking experience. You may not know what is expected of you or how to behave and act. Read on below in order to get insight into how to conduct yourself in chat rooms.
Protocol in chat rooms – what you need to know
- It is important to remember that when you first access the chat room no one knows who you are. Thus, you need to introduce yourself to the group in a friendly and polite manner.
- Think about the reason that you joined that specific chat room and initiate conversation in the group. If you joined the chat room to speak to people with similar interests as you then you should ask them about it (e.g. speak about tennis, bowling or your favourite books). Stating why you joined the chat room and being specific assists communication in the group.
- Be respectful to everyone.
- If someone answers your question or makes contact with you remember to respond.
- Do not keep repeating questions if no one answers them. If no one is responding to your communication in the chat room then you may need to leave and go into a different chat room. Sometimes groups go off track and engage in other conversations that are of no interest to you.
- Spelling and grammar are still important. Do not type everything in CAPITAL letters as this may come across as being aggressive.
- Chat rooms also allow individuals to go “private” and chat one-on-one with each other. If you would like to do this with someone in the chat room remember to ask for his or her permission first. Never provide a stranger with your personal details or home address. Remember to stay alert and safe at all times.
Leave a Reply