Seven Castles

Instant Messaging Etiquette

                                      

December 5, 2007

 

Instant messaging (IM) can be a happy, convenient and effective medium for all, if all the parties keep some hints and points in mind.

 

It is simple etiquette to inquire if the person on the other side has time to chat by sending a simple message like "Hi, can we chat?" If the person on the other side replies in the negative, it is important to respect his or her decision and try another time.

 

Instant messages should be short and sweet. If you find that you would like to convey more in a message then it would be better to either pick up the phone or switch to email. Do not be afraid to use the phone and email.

 

Instant messaging is similar to placing words in a place for all to see, it is thus better to write messages that portrays you in a good light. Remember that instant messages can be saved and forwarded.

 

Using instant messaging to break up with a boyfriend, reprimand an employee or criticize a colleague is a strict no-no. If you need to do any of the following, be brave and tell the person what you feel about him or her face-to-face.

 

Everyone who uses instant messaging may not be comfortable with jargon, acronyms and abbreviations. It is thus important to first gauge the situation and use jargon appropriately.

 

Be aware that CAPS LOCK in the instant messaging world is considered shouting, use it when you want to draw attention to something, or make a point.

 

If you want to display some emotion use the emoticon. Cute, funny and sad – you can display any emotion using this feature.

 

Be careful while writing messages because typos are a real turn off. Also remember not to criticize another person's typing.

 

Be aware of other people's typing skills. You may type 100 words a minute, but your colleague may only manage 20, so be sure to check that the instant messaging conversation you are having is still the same one the other person thinks he or she is having.

 

Often communication skills are taxed when you carry on more than one instant messaging conversation, or a phone conversation. It is better to do one action properly rather than ruin all of them.

 

Use Status and Status descriptions effectively. Use the instant messaging alerts to let others know when you are going to be out of touch. You can let your creativity flow to make the messages more informative.

 

When you leave the office, or you are done for the day, log off from your instant messaging system. That way people know you are not there - versus just not responding to their requests.

 

Use the instant messaging service appropriately. Do not use another login ID to spy on your friends. If you do not want to be disturbed, it would be better for you to avail of the services that are offered on instant messaging.

 

Instant messaging can be a productivity killer. Do not use it at work for personal chat – it is the biggest time-waster. 

【作者: zhangliping】【访问统计:】【2007年12月5日 星期三 05:22】【注册】【打印】