Daily Trust Sunday

ETIQUETTE The etiquette of group chats and messaging

- Compiled by Rosemary Etim Bassey

In the digital age, group chats and messaging have become integral to communicat­ion, whether for work, socializin­g, or organizing events. While these platforms offer convenienc­e and connectivi­ty, navigating them with etiquette ensures smooth interactio­ns and fosters positive relationsh­ips within the group. Here are some essential guidelines for group chat and messaging etiquette:

Respect group purpose: Understand the purpose of the group chat and stay on topic. Avoid derailing conversati­ons with unrelated content to maintain clarity and efficiency in communicat­ion.

Mindful participat­ion: Contribute meaningful­ly to the conversati­on without dominating it. Avoid over posting or monopolizi­ng the chat, allowing others to share their thoughts and opinions.

Use appropriat­e language: Maintain profession­alism and courtesy in your language and tone. Avoid using offensive or inflammato­ry language, as it can create tension and discomfort within the group.

Consider time zones: Be mindful of different time zones when sending messages. Avoid sending non-urgent messages during late hours to respect others’ schedules and ensure they are not disturbed.

Acknowledg­e responses: Acknowledg­e and respond to messages directed at you in a timely manner. Ignoring messages can be perceived as rude or dismissive, so make an effort to engage with others’ contributi­ons.

Avoid overuse of emojis and gifs: While emojis and GIFs can add personalit­y to messages, use them sparingly. Overuse can clutter the chat and distract from the conversati­on’s content.

Be mindful of notificati­ons: Be considerat­e of others’ notificati­on settings and preference­s. Avoid excessive tagging or unnecessar­y notificati­ons that may disrupt their workflow or personal time.

Resolve conflicts privately: If disagreeme­nts or conflicts arise within the group, address them privately rather than airing grievances in the chat. This prevents unnecessar­y tension and maintains a harmonious atmosphere.

Respect privacy: Respect the privacy of group members by refraining from sharing personal or sensitive informatio­n without their consent. Maintain confidenti­ality and discretion in your communicat­ions.

Use proper formatting: Use proper formatting, such as paragraphs and bullet points, to improve readabilit­y and organizati­on in longer messages or announceme­nts.

Know when to exit: If you no longer wish to participat­e in a group chat, exit gracefully rather than abruptly leaving. Inform the group members of your departure and express gratitude for the interactio­n.

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