So, Do You Have Good Online Etiquette?

Continuing from the last two topics about good etiquette in the digital era or just plain good etiquette, here is my thoughts and views on the following:

Should employees be using their mobile phones during a meeting?

No. This is a clear sign of rudeness.

There is a proper place and time for everything, more so in the office set-up where meetings call for all employees' 100% attention. If your mind is drifting somewhere else, then what is the point of having a meeting?

Can I send a text message just before meeting someone to say that I will be late?

No. Late means late.

It's totally uncalled for and leaves a bad taste in the mouth when you do this. I have since learned that punctuality is respect for other people's time. When it is time to show up then you have to do everything no matter what to show up on time. That's the only way you could gain respect from them as well.

Should Facebook or Twitter be a place to (a) start an argument or (b) declare your love?

No, but it depends.

We have to admit that Facebook and Twitter are becoming public tools of self-expression. We can say just about anything that we want to say. In the same vein that we have the right to say what we want to, these people have also the same rights. So, at most, we should all temper our emotions when replying and observe courtesy and respect.

As to declaring one's love on Facebook and Twitter, well, good online etiquette dictates that some things are better kept private especially sweet nothings that are probably just best heard when whispered to your loved one's ears.

Can I update my Facebook page or Twitter feeds or reply to an SMS or e-mail, when I am out with friends?

No, spend quality time with your friends.

This is really the irony of things that are happening in the social media scenario right now. Isn't it sad that we actually do Facebook and Twitter to connect to friends and yet when we are actually out with them in the real world we still end up glued to our gadgets? What's up with that? Totally not good etiquette in the digital era. When you are out with your friends, be with them in body, mind, soul, and spirit. Pay attention. Enjoy the moment. Be present. Connect.