Here's a make-believe posting scenario. Maybe you've seen something like this on TVWBB or other discussion forums.
You can see there's some heat in this series of posts, and it appears to be in a downward spiral...
There will always be times when you disagree with what someone posts. The challenge is to post a reply that states your opinion without creating hostility. In other words, how to disagree without being disagreeable.
Here's an example of how Member C might have posted differently:
Why is Member C's response better this time around?
Bottom line: Members of an online community should not shy away from disagreement, but we should disagree in constructive ways that foster greater understanding and camaraderie between members, not tear us apart.
What do you think?
Member A: "Anyone have experience with the new Acme SuperWidget? I'm thinking about buying one."
Member B: "I wouldn't take an Acme SuperWidget if Acme gave me one for free. Poor product."
Member C: "You wouldn't know a good product if one bit you in the butt! I like the SuperWidget, best widget I own."
Member B: "Hey, just stating my opinion. I'm entitled to mine, you're entitled to yours."
Member C: "Have you even TRIED the SuperWidget??? Don't talk about stuff you know nothing about!"
Member B: "I wouldn't take an Acme SuperWidget if Acme gave me one for free. Poor product."
Member C: "You wouldn't know a good product if one bit you in the butt! I like the SuperWidget, best widget I own."
Member B: "Hey, just stating my opinion. I'm entitled to mine, you're entitled to yours."
Member C: "Have you even TRIED the SuperWidget??? Don't talk about stuff you know nothing about!"
You can see there's some heat in this series of posts, and it appears to be in a downward spiral...
There will always be times when you disagree with what someone posts. The challenge is to post a reply that states your opinion without creating hostility. In other words, how to disagree without being disagreeable.
Here's an example of how Member C might have posted differently:
Member B: "I wouldn't take an Acme SuperWidget if Acme gave me one for free. Poor product."
Member C: "Can you say more about why you think it's a poor product? I like the SuperWidget because it offers a lot of value for the money. I especially like the adjustable fitzenruder valve and the multi-phase digiwiki. I'd encourage anyone to buy a SuperWidget!"
Member C: "Can you say more about why you think it's a poor product? I like the SuperWidget because it offers a lot of value for the money. I especially like the adjustable fitzenruder valve and the multi-phase digiwiki. I'd encourage anyone to buy a SuperWidget!"
Why is Member C's response better this time around?
- It is not confrontational.
- It seeks information from Member C to understand why he feels the way he does.
- It offers support for the SuperWidget based on personal, hands-on experience.
- It makes Member C look credible and informed.
Bottom line: Members of an online community should not shy away from disagreement, but we should disagree in constructive ways that foster greater understanding and camaraderie between members, not tear us apart.
What do you think?