Workshops on Netiquette

On the Internet, we follow a code of conduct in order to be respectful to others and clearly understood called netiquette (Internet + etiquette). Unlike face-to-face interactions, what people do over the Internet is permanent and, once posted on the Web or sent through email, can be spread widely. By learning good netiquette, you will be in a better position to boost your image, for yourself as well as your company.

MySecureCyberspace has developed short sessions for the workplace on the topic of netiquette. (See below for workshop PDF downloads.) The Netiquette Workshops are designed in a "brown bag" format such that they can be easily read and discussed by a small group over lunch hour. At the end of the hour, your group will have a stronger understanding of each other and the company, and you might identify important points to be sure to tell new employees when they join the organization in order to avoid problems in the future. It could even lead to the more formal development of Internet office policies.

When you put netiquette to use, your coworkers will be more respectful to each other and clients, as well as have an understanding of expected behavior, such as appropriate use of office equipment and office Internet access. Netiquette can lead to a more productive workplace and overall a happier place to work.

Download a Netiquette Workshop

You may need to install Adobe Reader  (free) to access the PDF files.

Session 1: Email Netiquette (PDF, 730 kb): As much as email is commonly used to increase productivity, it is also the source of misunderstandings, conflicts and severed relationships. This session views many aspects of the use of email in the workplace and discusses how to use it effectively with careful respect for others.

Session 2: Cyber Office (PDF, 817 kb): The cyber office is a workplace that relies heavily on computers, networked office equipment, electronic media, digital documentation and the Internet to conduct its daily business. This session explores how coworkers can be more productive by being more considerate of others when using shared resources and in the office space.

Session 3: Online Forum and Social Media (PDF, 951 kb): While online discussion boards have been around for a while, social media only recently gained broad popularity and reached into the office setting. In this session, coworkers will compare the benefits and drawbacks of interacting online, discuss common pitfalls, and consider how the team can best use these tools and social media.

Session 4: Mobile Devices(PDF, 951 kb): Cell phones have become an important tool in the office. As they become more prevalent, and gadgets such as netbooks and smartphones join the scene, it is more important for coworkers to talk with each other and their supervisors about how these tools should be used. In this session, coworkers will discuss their questions and expectations about using mobility technology in the workplace.

Netiquette Workshop Instructions

Decide which workshop you would like. Select a link above to open the PDF file of the workshop. You will need Adobe Acrobat software, such as Adobe Reader  (free), installed on your computer to access the file. Save the file to your computer. Print as needed.

To get started: Appoint a coordinator who will lead your small group through the session. Estimated time: 1 hour.

Notes for the Group Coordinator:

• Read through the workshop. Highlight the parts that you feel are especially important or relevant to your group.
• Decide ahead of time which activities, e.g. Scenario Discussions, you would like to lead with your group. Consider asking coworkers for their opinion. For large groups, you might want to break participants up into smaller groups and divide the scenario discussions between them.
• During the workshop, write down issues where the group seems to be in agreement (example: all emails should be responded to within 24 hours). Consider making these issues a part of your employee handbook/office policies and cover these issues with new employees during orientation. Also make note of issues where the group is unable to agree. These issues can be discussed further or brought to the attention of management.
• At the conclusion, help the group to come to a consensus on what steps should be taken next, such as creating an employee handbook or making updates to the office policies.

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