Top 10

Okay, so the internet police wont come and get you and the bush people arent peeking in your windows with binoculars, but there definitely are some great rules for internet etiquette that will make your online experience more enjoyable.

1. When typing never write in all capital letters. That is shouting. People dont like it when you shout at them in person. And they sure dont like when you shout at them on the net!

2. The Acronyms Rule. Dont overuse acronyms in online communication. We all know what RSVP and FAQ stands for, but not everyone knows the meaning of ROTFL and BTD. Use acronyms sparingly, and avoid them in business correspondence.

3. Dont steal those photographs off the web even if they are a perfect fit for what you need. Chances are they are copyrighted and someone spent a long time putting that together. Get permission and give credit where credit is due.

4. The Tag Youre It Rule. You have just connected with an old friend from grade school or college. Avoid posting and tagging photos of them that arent complimentary. Everyone needs a fresh start and its only fair to be on an even social media playing field.

5. Dont gossip and keep personal information personal. Dont tell stories that you dont know for a fact to be true. And often, just because its true, doesnt mean that it needs to be repeated.

6. The S.P.A.M. Rule. Remember, SPAM is a four-letter word. Facebook is a terrific place to expand your social and business network with people you have just met, while reconnecting with those from your past. If you have a product or service you would like to promote, send a private and personal email message to someone and ask permission. Dont get in the habit of self-promoting your next event on someone elses profile. If yo do so, expect to be de-friended in a minute.

7. Dont plagiarize. Someone spent a long time coming up with their content. When you borrow something from someone, give them the credit. Site their name or their site. Give the site when you have gotten your information.

8. The Off-limits Rule. Opinions on politics, religion, personal attacks, and controversial subjects that could cause embarrassment to others should not be put on the public Internet. When in doubt, dont. You will lose friends and followers quickly.

9. The Send Button Rule. Make sure to use spell-check and proof read messages before pushing the send button. Remember, you cant take it back. Never send an email when youre angry. Chances are youll feel different in the morning.

10. Spreading the Love Rule. Comment and share interesting posts from your friends on your favorite social networking sites and blogs. Become viral with your friends and family. Be social media friendly and click both the share and like buttons on Facebook, if you see a post or story that you think your friends and followers would enjoy.

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