We’ve all done it.  You need something, you have a question and you IM someone.  You probably aren’t thinking so you start with *Hey, do you (insert question here)*.  If you were thinking you might have said *Hey, how are you?  Do you (insert question here)*.  In both cases, if it happens once in awhile, and you aren’t really busy, no big deal.  You answer the question, they go away.

Let’s think about this for a moment though.  You’ve IM’d someone to get help from them or information.  You have no idea if they are busy or not.  Did you ask if they had a minute for a question/problem/issue?  To me this is like running up to someone in RL, and yelling a question in their face.  Can you say rude?  Would it kill you to say hello first?  Maybe exchange a few pleasantries?

When was the last time you talked to this person?  A few days ago?  Longer?  If you’ve not spoken to them in awhile, why are you IMing them now?  Desparate for help?  Try the wiki.  Try Google.

The last time you IMd this person, was it for a chat or did you want something then too?  Depending on the person, they’ll probably still answer your question, give you the help you ask for.  They aren’t going to be thrilled though.  If it was me, I’d be wanting to know when I started looking like an information booth.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m happy to help people with stuff.  I’m a Mentor and I have no problem answering questions and helping people with stuff.  If I look back at my chat logs though, and the only thing I see under someone’s name are questions I’m going to get pissed.  If you’re only friends with me because I can help you, or my friends can, then you need to find another information source.  If your friends with me because you like me and oh yeah, I might be smart and can help you, then for FFS why not say hello now and then!

End of Pet Peeve #187

Tags: pet peeve, second life, SecondLife, sl