Guidelines for          
Effective E-Community Communication            

                                                                                       
Copyright © 2001                        
                                       Diane Howard, Ph.D                                                        

 

• Introduce yourself to the group

1. Take time to "listen" to an e-community's postings before sending a message.
2. Welcome newcomers.

• Post messages respectfully.

1. Observe the "Netiquette" (group discussion etiquette), which is posted for the group.
2. Utilize precise and concrete language.
3. Give specific details and examples.
4. Participate with civility in an e-group.
5. Be honest but proceed cautiously with self-disclosing, so as not to be hurt by
   unscrupulous group participants.

• In posting information for a project, give complete information.
        1. Give a project title and short description.
        2.  Include financial benefits or costs.
        3.  Give the time/location.
        4.  Outline the schedule.
        5.  Clarify the specific format
        6.  Provide contact information, email address and/or a mail address
             and/or a telephone number (with area code).
        7.  Describe how interested parties should respond.

    

• Encourage communal and reciprocal discussions. Don’t just dump your ideas.

1. Describe how you feel.
2. Don't "flame" (post hostile or negative messages or responses.)
3. Think about how the others may respond to your message.
4. Paraphrase or repeat key ideas or words of others before responding.
5. Communicate support for others.
6. Give appropriate praise.
7. Give appropriate comfort (Verderber, 2001).

   Verderber, K., Verderber, R. (2001). Interpersonal Communication Concepts, Skills, and Contexts. Australia: Wadsworth.
   

   New Text Available-          

Enhanced by Technology, Not Diminished:
A Practical Guide to Effective, Distance Communication            

Contact Dr. Howard
dhoward@vvm.com
Onsite and/or Distance
Communication Consultation


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