Just under two years ago I came across this forum completely by accident while doing some research. I had a look and joined up because although the forum was fairly small, the members, content and general atmosphere was very welcoming, friendly and comfortable. This was in direct contrast to other forums I’d been frequenting where the ambience had deteriorated somewhat and I no longer enjoyed the time spent there. I recognised many names here and knew this forum was a decent place in which to discuss my hobby with like minded people.
Unfortunately over recent months I’ve noticed and I know I’m not alone, a growing and rather disturbing trend whereby members seem to be driven by egos and attitude. This is simply not acceptable for the health of the forum.
Today I sat down and opened a thread and was quite frankly absolutely disgusted by the content contained within.
A new member, on his opening post had asked for help with an item and also for help to post photos of said item. Instead of the members here welcoming this member with friendly advice and help as he had asked for, he was treated to a barrage of sarcastic replies and in one instance an insult. the only person who offered to help was a Moderator.
Is this acceptable behaviour from the members of this forum?
To be blunt - NO.
I have no idea what instigated this response but I will make it perfectly clear right now that it will stop right now.
This forum is open to view across the world and we would like it to be seen as the place I described in my opening paragraph. We would like new members to join and participate in the discussions, to generate more income for the forum to enable it to evolve and continue being the success it already is. The behaviour exhibited today will not encourage new members to join if they think on their opening post they will be treated in such a disturbing way, why on earth should a new member be treated as such? Why should any member be treated as such?
This post is not to castigate those involved but merely to point out that it is beyond the code of conduct here on the forum and will not be tolerated.
Every member here will treat others with respect, courtesy, manners and politeness regardless of their age, post count, length of time here or whatever else you use to gauge your responses. That is not to say harmless banter and mickey taking is not allowed, of course it is, banter between friends is how we generate the good natured feeling between members. Outright insults, sarcasm and pointless posts designed to stir things up are those which are not allowed.
If there is a bandwagon going around the place, think before you jump on it.
In future, those who seem to think they’re bit above everyone else and think they can treat other members with disdain and be downright rude, insulting, sarcastic and unpleasant will themselves be treated as such and unceremoniously kicked out, no matter how many posts they have or how long they’ve been here.
Todays society does not seem to promote civility, respect and tolerance for the people within it or for those who could be seen as outsiders. Treat people here in a manner with which you yourself would wish to be treated, if someone asks for help, offer it, if someone asks advice, give it but think about your response before you hit that submit button. If criticism is needed do it constructively. Encourage new members, don’t put them off, help and offer advice to those who ask for or need it, don’t dismiss them out of hand if they’re new. There is absolutely no need for the rudeness which has been creeping in slowly.
If you have nothing constructive, helpful or informative to say then don’t. Drop the egos and attitudes and learn to respect fellow members.