Thursday, June 01, 2006

Instant Message Etiquette

I would like to highlite the points published by author Stowe Boyd (June 01, 2006), and encourage you to visit and read the entire article (click here). The article is based on an interview with Carl Tyler (CTO of Instant Technologies).

  • Use status and status descriptions effectively.
  • IM isn't email.
  • Be careful when using acronyms.
  • Don't be afraid to use the phone.
  • Don't hide behind IM.
  • When you leave the office, or you're done for the day, log off from your IM system.
  • If you're on the phone with one person, or someone comes into your office to chat, try and avoid still taking part in IM conversations.
  • Be aware of other people's typing skills.
  • Be aware that CAPS LOCK in the IM world is considered shouting.
  • When it makes sense bring in other people.
  • While these may seem obvious, they do represent a major source of confusion and frustration among IM users. If you are interested in a more formal (and somewhat edutaining) guide to Instant Messaging, check out The Instant Messenger Handbook (published at Black Table).

    David