Bad Netiquette has Consequences

Using netiquette will ultimately lessen the chances of a misunderstanding or argument with a fellow cyberspace member. Not using the rules of netiquette could potentially have lasting consequences. Some consequences of not using netiquette include, “creating corporate embarrassment, undermining teamwork, draining employee energy, and breeding “toxic worry” by spreading miscommunication (Conlin, 2002).” Many of these consequences could be easily corrected by maintaining a balance between email and face to face communication (Conlin, 2002). Improper netiquette could force other cyberspace members to confer with one another and either alienate the offensive person or call them out which could lead to an embarrassing situation (Conrad, 2002). Conflicts with other people are not always the only consequence of not using netiquette, court appearances with emails as evidence is possible. Never, assert that email messages are sacred, “e-mail messages are stored on backup tapes for years (Conlin, 2002)…” If netiquette is not practiced, many embarrassing moments can happen, that could have been easily prevented. With online communication, it is important to remember, nobody is immune to miscommunication and good netiquette techniques can minimize hurt feelings, relationships, and embarrassing moments.

References:

Conlin, Michelle. (2002). Watch What You Put in that Office E-mail. Business Week, 3801, 2p, 1c, pp. 114-115, [Electronic Version]. Retrieved November 18, 2006. from http://web.ebscohost.com.ezproxy1.lib.asu.edu/ehost/detail?vid=46&hid=101&sid=d1208530-5f2e-4481-b33d-90b66885899a%40sessionmgr104

Conrad, Dianne. (2002). Inhibition, Integrity and Etiquette Among Online Learners: The Art of Niceness. Distance Education, 23, 2, pp. 197-212, [Electronic Version]. Retrieved November 14, 2006 from http://web.ebscohost.com.ezproxy1.lib.asu.edu/ehost/pdf?vid=13&hid=101&sid=d1208530-5f2e-4481-b33d-90b66885899a%40sessionmgr104.