How do Others Feel?

[Wood Borer]

Many times over the years and twice recently, I have along with others responded to threads started particularly by newbies where the thread starter is not heard of again. This disappoints me immensely (not the words I was thinking but let's keep it clean).

Are these people just takers "I'm right Jack"?

Whenever I start a thread I feel it is my responsiblity to reguarly check that thread and respond to those who are kind enough to give their time and valuable or witty responses.

Is it just me that gets upset about this type of behavior?

I see it as no different to helping a driver by pushing their car and they just drive off without a wave or a thanks.

Perhaps I am just getting grumpy in my old age.:?

[Dry Water]

I'm new and my experience is that I've started a thread and had one response but it has gone no further. Without a response it is like talking to no one so the impetus is halted.
However, I have been checking regularly for responses. If I continue to contribute to this particular thread for the next month or so and still no response then I will close it off as it is plain no one is interested.
Rgds

[ss_11000]

tis not just you WB. i notice it alot ( even if i havent posted in the thread), and i wonder why even a simple "thanx for the info guys" isnt posted:?

[Wood Borer]

Sorry to hear of your experience Dry Water. It seems that you are into boats a subject where I have little experience in so I can't really help you.

Ask something about furniture or hand tools and I will respond and you can thank me (even if you couldn't care less and even if my response doesn't make sense at least we will both be happy:2tsup:)

There was an example a few years ago when I went out to my shed at almost midnight, arranged tools and wood to photograph in order to demonstrate my explanation - no response from the person who posted the question.:((

[Dry Water]

Now there's a thing......a lovely response. Quick and to the point. That's all a fella ever needs.
Yeah pity your not into boats but many thanks for the support.
Cheers

[tea lady]

When I posted my thread about my puny little handles I was kinda conscious that everyone in the world could read it and that if someone else wanted to know the answer to there should be some resolution to it. Thats why I set out my conclusions at the end about what I had discovered from everyones contributions and my further experiments. Other wise there really is no "repository of knowledge" so to speak. Every time someone wants to know something they have to ask all over again. May be "everyone" is the repository of knowledge.

Hmmmmm! My thoughts are a bit fuzzy but perhaps you get my gist?

[watson]

G'day Woodborer and Dry Water and others,
I totally agree........all my books are up in the shed......get a question..........go to the shed.........find the reference.........scan a page.......shrink to appropriate size..........POST the answer.........bugger all reply.
Manners Manners Manners.
Doesn't happen all the time, but jeez it cheeses me when it does,
Grumpy.
Regards,
Noel

Sorry didn't see you there Tea Lady

[Waldo]

Whenever I start a thread I feel it is my responsiblity to reguarly check that thread and respond to those who are kind enough to give their time and valuable or witty responses.

Perhaps I am just getting grumpy in my old age.:?

G'day Rob,

:no: To me it's just a common decency, it's no different from having a conversation with someone - they say something so you reply back.

I'm not old, but I do get grumpy. :D

[manoftalent]

Try not to let anothers ignorance ruin an otherwise perfik day ..:U

do unto others what you would have done to you.....:roll:

[watson]

Try not to let anothers ignorance ruin an otherwise perfik day ..:U

do unto others what you would have done to you.....:roll:
Only do it first!!......joking!!

[dazzler]

I think its more a case of coming across the site when the stuffs hit the fan, they are all excited/angry/inquisitive and ask away but in the meantime the answer comes to them somehow and they forget all about posting here.

[ss_11000]

I think its more a case of coming across the site when the stuffs hit the fan, they are all excited/angry/inquisitive and ask away but in the meantime the answer comes to them somehow and they forget all about posting here.
so maybe 'subscribing to a posted thread with instant email notification' needs to be a default setting for new people so this doesnt happen as often:?

[Groggy]

Good idea Stirlo, that one is a possible solution.

I agree with Rob on this one, there are a few times where a response is given and no thanks is offered. Just plain old good manners to say thanks.

[prozac]

I agree with the sentiment expressed here. I know I felt uneasy and awkward when first posting here and you are never quite sure how you will be viewed through what you have written, but it is common decency and good manners to take time to respond to those who have tried to assist.

Don't you hate it though when you respond to a thread that many have been contributing to and as a conversation killer the thread stops? ...no I don't suppose it happens to anyone else.

BTW welcome to the forum Dry Water.

prozac

[joe greiner]

A variation of this question has been posted before, but I can't find the link. Pretty much the same sentiments as currently expressed. Yeah, I get grumpy about it occasionally, but it passes away soon enough. Stirlo's idea sounds grrrrrreat. Maybe revert to standard default without subscription after, say, 5 posts? This feature might not yet be available in VBulletin, but could be valuable on most other BB's too. I think there's a VBulletin forum for users (admins etc.) someplace.

Joe

[kekemo]

In reflection ... I see only one point that has not been mentioned... that in giving your advice, expertise & excellent knowledge, which I would suspect was not just graciously passed on, but more than likely thoroughly & correctly researched......

typed out, meticulously & then forwarded to a supposedly keen & eager "newbie"...who found it was so spot on, that as the rude recipient didn't need to consult anything or anyone again...

...I would just remember their name...not be bothered to respond ever again.....to the ignoramus.....peeves me off too!...but for the few that us off there are the up & coming stars that really do appreciate our woodworking camaraderie....unfortunately I would not like to loose the few good ones....JUST REMEMBER THE NAME OF THE OTHER ONE!

Cheer.... sometimes it's hard to be nice always.....
Kekemo

[Robo1]

There are a couple of things I would like to add. Just my observations and these are NOT critiscism's. I work in a school and I constantly talk to the teachers about these sorts of things, my post is a little long winded but I think it's relevant.

1) Sometimes it takes a while for a response to some threads, I have posted a question and it has taken a few days for an answer. In todays world more than 5 minutes to wait is too long!

2) As far as getting a form of recognition/gratitude, for your answer to a question, we live in a growing society of takers, not givers.

Over the years of working in a school and observing the gradual changes in behavioral patterns that the children and "parents" display it is of no surprise to me that moral standards have slipped to a much degraded level. I have children coming up to me and calling me by my first name and demanding that I get their ball off the roof or clean up a mess that they have just made, I have even had parents of these children complain that I did not get their child's ball for them. I have to explain to them that their precious child needs to learn approach people in a respectful way, and start the conversation with a "Mr White could you please", and end it with a "thank you", I get told I am an employee and I should do as I'm told, after all they pay a lot of money to send their child to a private school! With parents like that, Is it any wonder that when you help SOME people that you get no gratitude for your help. Not all parents are like that although it seems to be growing everyday.
The pace of life today is getting out of control, 50-100 hour working weeks are becoming far to common. Any wonder there is no time for parent child time together, I see kids that are dropped at before school care at 6.45 some are still there in after school care at 6pm, monday to Friday they go home and almost straight to bed. Mum and dad have been working so hard all week Friday night they look forward to dinner and a few drinks at the club, babysitter looks after the kids, sleep in sat morning then shopping, Sunday off to church, Monday the whole thing starts again! where is the family time? I think its about time people became a little less material and made do with a little less and spent more time with family, maybe this would solve some of society's problems
What sort of society are we going to end up with, when the latest generation become parents, they have not been taught any parenting skills.
Rob....

[Fuzzie]

It doesn't p#ss me off too much if it seeds an otherwise useful/enjoyable thread. I think it is rude but it's probably their loss. There are lots of forums out there in www land that are far nastier places to hangout. I do however feel guilty lurking on threads about things like the Mackay floods and not dropping down a supportive note. I guess I figure everybody feels sorry for those poor guys and they must know because although there are only 14 replies, 215 people have viewed it.

BTW prozac did you notice that started happening before or after you chose your username :D:D:D (Oh and yes, you are not alone)

[Toolin Around]

There are a couple of things I would like to add. Just my observations and these are NOT critiscism's. I work in a school and I constantly talk to the teachers about these sorts of things, my post is a little long winded but I think it's relevant.

1) Sometimes it takes a while for a response to some threads, I have posted a question and it has taken a few days for an answer. In todays world more than 5 minutes to wait is too long!

2) As far as getting a form of recognition/gratitude, for your answer to a question, we live in a growing society of takers, not givers.

Over the years of working in a school and observing the gradual changes in behavioral patterns that the children and "parents" display it is of no surprise to me that moral standards have slipped to a much degraded level. I have children coming up to me and calling me by my first name and demanding that I get their ball off the roof or clean up a mess that they have just made, I have even had parents of these children complain that I did not get their child's ball for them. I have to explain to them that their precious child needs to learn approach people in a respectful way, and start the conversation with a "Mr White could you please", and end it with a "thank you", I get told I am an employee and I should do as I'm told, after all they pay a lot of money to send their child to a private school! With parents like that, Is it any wonder that when you help SOME people that you get no gratitude for your help. Not all parents are like that although it seems to be growing everyday.
The pace of life today is getting out of control, 50-100 hour working weeks are becoming far to common. Any wonder there is no time for parent child time together, I see kids that are dropped at before school care at 6.45 some are still there in after school care at 6pm, monday to Friday they go home and almost straight to bed. Mum and dad have been working so hard all week Friday night they look forward to dinner and a few drinks at the club, babysitter looks after the kids, sleep in sat morning then shopping, Sunday off to church, Monday the whole thing starts again! where is the family time? I think its about time people became a little less material and made do with a little less and spent more time with family, maybe this would solve some of society's problems
What sort of society are we going to end up with, when the latest generation become parents, they have not been taught any parenting skills.
Rob....

Very well said but I must add... The more things change the more they stay the same. It took me years to figure that saying out and what it means. Basically it's all been done or experienced before just not in our recent history. She'll be right, people will adapt and overcome and at sme oint kindness will be back in vogue :D.

[jmk89]

I don't mind if people don't find my response helpful, but it is nice to know that there is someone out there who has heard it!!

But it's like the reputation system, it really does not seem to work, although I try to send greenies, and one wishes that it did!

Time to shrug and have a cup of tea before it makes me grumpy...

[jmk89]

Very well said but I must add... The more things change the more they stay the same. It took me years to figure that saying out and what it means. Basically it's all been done or experienced before just not in our recent history. She'll be right, people will adapt and overcome and at sme oint kindness will be back in vogue :D.


Toolin, the Romans complained that the times had changed and so had the manners, to the worse - O tempora O mores.

I suspect that it is a constant human experience that we seem to feel that manners are getting worse as we get older. Maybe we each become more sensitive to, and appreciate more the good sense of, manners as we get older....

[JDarvall]

It bothered me for a while too.

The internet is a weird way to talk to one another though.

Its a convienient way to just not bother answering for some. Where in real life I'd imagine they'd be completely different.

And I'd guess not all of them are deliberately ignoring. Some probably just haven't had the chance to get back on the internet or have been sidetracked by something else far more important. Or something about the forum put them off, so they just thought 'stuff this place' .

And also, I think its hard for some new members to actually get involved, because they sense that all the regulars just want to talk to each other only. Plenty of regulars don't respond to new members questions as well. They just go off talking amongst themselves.

[jow104]

My parents and grandparents never had the experience of the internet. They would be astounded at the way that people from all over the world can now receive advice , knowledge and friendships that have been created by this modern way of life.

Some members that have come in and then gone out of this place must have never realised what could have given them a pleasant way of living over the last decade.

[flynnsart]

I hope i havent left anyone hanging, i do try to respond to any answers people have given me. But its such a big forum, and so many posts, i lose track of what i've posted and what posts i have been following. And I spend so much time on here! I love this forum, has filled a huge gap in my life.

Donna

[Brickie]

It bothered me for a while too.

The internet is a weird way to talk to one another though.



There is no one here, we are all imaginary, go back to sleep....ZZZZzzzzzz

[Brickie]

Hey Rob (WB), dont worry about it, the world is full of inconsiderate ppl, the internet just compresses them onto your screen. :p

[Ivan in Oz]

I'm with most of you here,

What gets up my Nose is that so often we do the Search for some Newbies;

also there is hardly any "Hello";
"Glad to be on here"
or "By your Leave"

YES!
I also getting to be a grimpy old SO-and-So:(

[Robo1]

Very well said but I must add... The more things change the more they stay the same. It took me years to figure that saying out and what it means. Basically it's all been done or experienced before just not in our recent history. She'll be right, people will adapt and overcome and at sme oint kindness will be back in vogue :D. __________________

I agree, times do seem to go in cycles, history repeats. I was just using my thoughts to say that there dose not seem to be the same expectations regarding manners or respect for younger people, as what we, as older people have been taught and have come to expect, of course there are exceptions. I also think that a lot of people have little time or give any thought as to the feelings and fears of others, and of the consequences of their actions toward others, how it impacts and affects them. I don't think in many cases it is intentional, It is just an occurrence of our current state of society.
Rob....

[Waldo]

There is no one here, we are all imaginary, go back to sleep....ZZZZzzzzzz

That's the whole thing, which Al has pointed out, you all, with the exception those of whom i know in the flesh, are all imaginary so consequently are just voices in my head.

Does the problem therein lie? If we personally knew everyone, would we react differently, as the question/annoyance that Ro b raised?

[Robo1]

Bloody Hell
I think I have just been sucked in!...:doh:
Rob....

[Lignum]

That's the whole thing, which Al has pointed out, you all, with the exception those of whom i know in the flesh, are all imaginary so consequently are just voices in my head.

Are you saying Al isnt a figment of my imagination :?:oo:

[AV Elec]

so maybe 'subscribing to a posted thread with instant email notification' needs to be a default setting for new people so this doesnt happen as often:?

Gold star to you matey, I think that would help :2tsup:

[Brickie]

Are you saying Al isnt a figment of imagination :?:oo:

Im a fimagination of your igment.....so suffer...:U

[Waldo]

Im a fimagination of your igment.....so suffer...:U

:D

[Wood Borer]

I think that not personally having to face the person who has done you a good turn might be a big part of it.

Some of you know that I spent quite a bit of time providing support for telephone and PABX technicians around Australia and a few other parts of the world. So often you would work back to find a solution for them "try this and get back to me". Too many times I have waited back after hours thinking they were in trouble only to find out that the solution did work and they had shot through.

Quite a few of them I have caught up with later in person either training them or fixing a big fault. When reminded of their pathetic self centred attitiude they were all embarrassed and so they should have been.

All of those who had met me face to face did not behave in this rude inconsiderate manner.

I will continue to give the best of my advice to newbies, I wasn't suggesting otherwise but it still gets up my nose when they don't respond.

[Toolin Around]

That's the whole thing, which Al has pointed out, you all, with the exception those of whom i know in the flesh, are all imaginary so consequently are just voices in my head.

Does the problem therein lie? If we personally knew everyone, would we react differently, as the question/annoyance that Ro b raised?

I think you've hit on a good point. Without personal association I suspect that people act differently. Most here to me are just writing on a screen void of a unique look and personality (tried to say that in the nicest way I could:-). The only personality I can hope to attach to it is my own, which for the most part, is probably pretty boring (hopefully that makes sense). Those that I do know outside of the computer screen invoke a different feeling. There is a unique face and personality that can be attached to the writing on the screen.

[Toolin Around]

I will continue to give the best of my advice to newbies, I wasn't suggesting otherwise but it still gets up my nose when they don't respond.


So what would you have done if no one had given a response to this thread :D

[kekemo]

I believe that friends are quiet angels


Who lift us to our feet when our wings

Have trouble remembering how to fly.





I need it...I miss my woodmate....
cheers...so if you get annoyed when the correct response does not come forth...or other people are impolite.. don't get upset.....just PM..me....it will make my day better...& I will always answer.
thanks.....Kekemo

[ss_11000]

I hope i havent left anyone hanging, i do try to respond to any answers people have given me. But its such a big forum, and so many posts, i lose track of what i've posted and what posts i have been following. And I spend so much time on here! I love this forum, has filled a huge gap in my life.

Donna
donna, if you subscribe to those threads you are watching, it makes tracking them down a lot easier as they will be in your user cp everytime a new post is made in the thread.


Are you saying Al isnt a figment of my imagination :?:oo:well, isnt that a severe let down:(:p

[savage]

G'Day Woodborer,
Yes I too have had the same experience, the last time was in the leadlight thread, offered all the help and a big fat nothing, so frustrating.

As for responding to a thread and seemingly killing it, all I can say about that is I.................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................
:U:roll:

[graemet]

Geez,
I had the same whinge a few months ago, but the consensus then was that I should get a life, get over it and not expect any thanks or acknowledgement!:no:
Cheers
Graeme

[Cliff Rogers]

I've had some of my attempts to be helpful ignored, I just put it down to me being on their 'ignore list'. :D

Though I don't know why I'm, I mean, it is not as if I may have posted something that some people would have thought was less that deserving of at least a cursory glance, but then again, maybe not.....

[powderpost]

As a general rule, I don't respond to some questions involving my area of 'expertise', when an answer has already appeared, and I agree with it. That only clutters the thread and repeats what has been said. As far as searching the board for topics, I still am not sure how to do it, didn't even know you could for a long time. I am not all that computer literate. Still haven't worked out how to make a quote from another post. Still don't know how to why to send a 'greenie'. I will survive. Just don't want to be told, Why don't you do a search". Would rather have a place to look for myself.
I have posted a thread that was asked for and the questioner did not even respond.
I prefer to move on.
Jim (to many 'I's in this post :-)

[Tisorp]

I have been a member of these forums for over three years but as I have minimal woodworking expertise I have certainly never been in the position of offering woodworking advice to anyone. I do however sympathise with those who have offered solicited advice but have not been accorded appropriate gratitude by the asker. I wish to assure those givers of advice and opinion however that their efforts are much appreciated by persons such as me who have spent much time reading and pondering their utterances (lurking). As is often pointed out almost every question askable has already been asked and when one uses the appropriate search engine relevant information can readily be found. Perhaps every time I found something informative on this forum I should have thanked the responsible poster in which case I would have to have posted on nearly every occasion I visited.

I do however now take this opportunity to thank Neil and the many knowledgeable persons who have made (and make) this forum a rewarding source of information for geriatric know nothings like me who, in their declining years, are possessed of the curious urge to mutilate inoffensive pieces of wood.

Cheers, Jeff

[snowyskiesau]

As someone with more enthusiasm than experience, I'm not in a position to offer woodworking advice.
Most of my posts have been asking questions rather than answering them.
The responses I've received on what, to most people here, would be basic woodworking stuff, have always been helpful and have always answered my questions.
The advice I received, even if not followed, has always been good.

If anyone who has responded to my cries for help, and has not been thanked - here's a big thank you to you all.
:2tsup::2tsup:

[Wongo]

It was 3-4 years ago. Some American dude posted his only thread on the forum. He wanted to know when to buy tools in Sydney. I PMed him the number and address of a few places but never heard from him since.

Some people are too good for us I think.

[Honorary Bloke]

It was 3-4 years ago. Some American dude posted his only thread on the forum. He wanted to know when to buy tools in Sydney. I PMed him the number and address of a few places but never heard from him since.

Some people are too good for us I think.

Sorry Wongo! :- Meant to get back to you.

Signed: American Dude. :D

[Wongo]

So that was you. I knew it. :D

Maybe I should do the same to you. :D

[underfoot]

a good example would be the latest thread in the art section,
( not sure how to post link)
I certainly hope that the questioner is appreciative of all the helpful advice.

[Cliff Rogers]

It was 3-4 years ago. Some American dude posted his only thread on the forum. .....


Sorry Wongo! :- Meant to get back to you.

Signed: American Dude. :D
Geeze yer a snob Bob, you came to Sydney & you didn't call in & see me while you were over here. :cool:

[Wood Borer]

My intention with this thread was to give a hint to newbies that a little bit of thanks goes a long way.

Most or all of those who have responded here are big enough to shrug off the occasional ignorant person who choses not to acknowledge those are are trying to help them.

[Cliff Rogers]

My intention with this thread was to give a hint to newbies that a little bit of thanks goes a long way.

Most or all of those who have responded here are big enough to shrug off the occasional ignorant person who choses not to acknowledge those are are trying to help them.
Thanks for that Rob. :2tsup:

[Cliff Rogers]

a good example would be the latest thread in the art section,
( not sure how to post link)
I certainly hope that the questioner is appreciative of all the helpful advice.
If it is the one I'm thinking of, it isn't there any longer. :D

[jow104]

BTW rob, some newbies post a thread with the intention of spamming and they are not interested in getting advice but have other motives.
This I have learnt since moderating.

[Wood Borer]

some newbies post a thread with the intention of spamming and they are not interested in getting advice but have other motives.

That is terrible for two reasons:

Firstly they have evil greedy intentions

Secondly they make others wary of genuine newbies.

Like I indicated earlier, I prefer to answer newbies even if the price is to be disappointed occasionally by the ignorant and those with ill intentions.

Thanks for giving your time and for protecting us John.:2tsup:

[Brickie]

BTW rob, some newbies post a thread with the intention of spamming and they are not interested in getting advice but have other motives.
This I have learnt since moderating.

Fun aint it? :roll:

[Chumley]

Gotta agree with the original post - even though I've only been a member for less than a year. I mostly track my questions to say thanks to the responders.

But it's more than just your own questions. I find it very helpful to read someones responses to my responses (if you know what I mean). Example: someone recently asked a question about using screws on tp decking. Having gone through the same thing a few months ago I pooled all my research into a response (basically told them to use 65mm screws, etc, etc). Well there was a response from someone who knew much more than me saying 50mm was plenty. I did another check to find the original post that had told me to use 65mm and bugger me, I couldn't find it. So, I learned something by responding and checking the other responses (and I have a very well locked down floor:B).

BTW, I'm still learning the ins and outs of searching, new posts, etc.

Cheers,
Adam

[Bob38S]

I have had a number of questions answered and don't think I have missed anyone in my appreciation - if I have "sorry about that".

As to Stirlo's suggestion - great idea - not that you go looking for kudos but it is nice to know that it has been read and understood and that you have helped someone out of a bind or made a job easier for them.

It has been said before - manners and attitude - and I would have to agree with previous posters that unfortunately many people have not had suitable role models to show them what manners are.

Look on it as Attitude = Altitude

Good attitude = great altitude to which you will rise - for yourself and in the eyes of others even if you may be misguided or just plain wrong. The converse also holds very true.

Regards,
Bob

[echnidna]

Some questions asked on these forums get so many varying and even conflicting answers that it can be very hard at times to decipher practical answers.

If someone asks a question that I answer I don't mind if they don't acknowledge me.

While I prefer to offer thanks when I ask a question I usually wait for several answers before I do anything. At Odd times I may have inadvertently lost track of the thread and in so doing don't say thanks.

[joe greiner]

At Odd times I may have inadvertently lost track of the thread and in so doing don't say thanks.

Very easy to do, especially if you miss "Mass" a few days in a row. I've probably done it myself. I suppose we should give the benefit of the doubt, at least for regular congregants. And even those with only a few posts, who don't offer thanks for the answer, could be thanked for just asking the question as the real beneficiaries are everybody else, both members and visitors.

Take the high road.

Joe

[corbs]

Hmmm... all this support and WB hasn't said thank you once:rolleyes::D. I do agree with the sentiments of those who have posted in this thread. It took me a long time to ask a question and the support I got helped me immensely (I said thank you too:cool:). There is the other side of the coin too where someone has answered a question and you thank them for their advice as it answered your question... then you get another good response so you thank them... then you get another response... :-. I try to thank everyone but sometimes its easier to let a thread die:rolleyes:. There is way too much support on these forums.

Corbs

[ubeaut]

Just a small input from me.

The idea of auto notification is a really good one however it has 1 major draw back which is the bane of my life and a real pain in the but.

When an email notification is sent and not delivered it is bounced back to my inbox. I often get as many a 50 or more of these bounced emails per day.

Some are because email addresses have been changed and not updated. Some people change email addresses as often as they change their underware.

Some are because paranoia has people screwing up their security so high that almost no emails get through.

And others have servers that won't let any automated responses through. Email notification is an automated response.

Have tried everything to fix this ongoing problem but it's pretty much impossible, 37 returned email so far for today till 10am and each has to be dealt with.

_______________________________


I have to agree that it is very frustrating not to receive a thanks or any acknowledgement at all for help, but even more so to have the advice given by others completely ignored or challenged by the question asker, which has happened on a number of occasions, then having that same person coming on a few times asking for advice on the same subject and continuing to ignore all advice given by others.
_______________________________

Cheers - Neil :)

[autogenous]

Maybe set up a folder and a filter Neil so that the emails are redirected into that specific folder out of the road rather than jumbled with more legitimate emails?

If its in C-Panel then may use another email address for that particular task and run it straight into your email client into a new folder (bounce)?:)


I'm new and my experience is that I've started a thread and had one response but it has gone no further. Without a response it is like talking to no one so the impetus is halted.
However, I have been checking regularly for responses. If I continue to contribute to this particular thread for the next month or so and still no response then I will close it off as it is plain no one is interested.

The internet is a funny thing. Its easy to assume. As for boats especially wooden ones are very specialist topic. Its not a bad concept if people don't comment rather than speculate thats if they have even checked the copper nail area of the forum.
Its easy to feel a bit gyped about internet culture with an assumption that people cant be bothered especially when you start out.
Put it down to people don't know. They're not being rude, more likely polite.

[MikeCollett]

hi all. this is a great thread and think it should be a sticky by way of an introduction to who you guys are.
i only really found this site the other day and already i have got a lot from it merely by following the recent posts.
advice here looks great. had a look at a post about how steep to landscape a bank. what a lot of stuff there that i didnt know! now i do :-) or at least where to look.
in respect to that level of advice, i will tend to keep my mouth shut unless i really need to know something and i cant find it by searching, or i actually know what i type. luckily i do know some stuff so i hope i will be of some use. i am here somewhere though...
when i ask a queston, it will have thanks included in the original question, and they will be sincere. even if only one person read a post and still they dont reply, then the thanks is for them. sometimes threads can generate very useful discussions that can give you many points of view to consider. but also, sometimes the offerings of some people is not worthy of thanks.
anyway, hello, my name is mike, and it is really nice to see people that are nice. a couple of jokers as well - awesome
ps how do you subscribe to a thread?

[Afro Boy]

ps how do you subscribe to a thread?
Hi Mike and welcome to the forums.

Top right of the thread you'll see a "Thread Tools" menu. Drop that down and hit "Subscribe to this Thread" link. You can then select how often you want to be notified.

[MikeCollett]

damn im blind. thank half a bottle of rum for that. and thanks to you affro boy for that info

[Wood Borer]

Welcome to the forum Mike,

I certainly wouldn't expect a thanks for each reply but some people only have one post which consists of a question that was well answered by many clever people with no trace of the original poster.

It won't put me off answering new forum members but I am afraid it could put others off answering genuine enquiries because of a few self centred few newbies.

Perhaps Neil could prevent those who couldn't give a stuff and/or those who are just plain ignorant from logging in or posting until they have fixed up their EMAIL addresses. I think they need this BB far more than Neil needs the bouncing back EMAILs.

[Ashore]

Frankly my dear I don't give a damm , I try to answer any question that I think may help , sometimes you post an answer and another more knowledgable forum member gives a far better more accurate answer or in a much easier format to understand.
I thought the whole Idea of the forum was to help others whenever you could and in turn if you ask a question be given advise from other forum members more skilled or who had come across the problem previously and were willing to tell how they overcame it , the information may not always be accurate ( regardless of what the poster may think ) or be suitable for every circumstance but is freely given
Sometimes I have recieved Greenies or PM's from people I have helped rather then posting their thanks on the open forum or PM's asking for more detail , and sometimes a diffrent sort of PM from al those who thought otherwise, but what ever, If I think I can help I will try to do so and I think that is one of the corner stones that has made this forum the best , If you want ticks and pats on the back then there are other forums that do that but are usually so strict that most of us would be banned if we posted the usual stuff within the first week
For me if a newbee posts a qustion on their first post , gets the propper answer and never posts again then that loss is more than made up by those that post the question get the answer and become regular members and add their knowledge to the collective pool :2tsup:

[Wood Borer]

I'm certainly not expecting a greenie or nominations for the woodworker of the year - not even a personal thanks. Anyone who gives answers for their own personal glory, I think is participating for the wrong reasons.

Quite often it is the collective responses that give detailed but broad solutions rather than the individual responses - similar to the information you may seek from books on a subject.

A simple "thanks for all the suggestions, they were useful" would suffice. But to never hear from that person ever again on the Bulletin Board is a bit rich.

[Groggy]

It's a little bit like asking someone for directions. They take the time to give an answer but the person then walks away without saying anything in reply.

The internet is different, sure, but a lot of folks expect
a response to either acknowledge the help or some sort of reply that indicates the question has been adequately answered, effectively closing the thread. Without it the thread still seems open, and replies continue to be given.

[LGS]

I've just had an example of a person who asked my advice by email. I sent what I could by return email and received no acknowledgment that the info had arrived. I sent a PM to confirm receipt and received no response to that either. I try to help when I can, but this has made me think twice about helping other forumites in future. Civil courtesy surely isn't dead.:((

[Wood Borer]

LGS,

I understand how you feel - extremely angry, disappointed and upset.:((:((:((

To let these ignorant self centred people influence your response to others especially newbies means that you have joined the ranks of the moronic and abandoned your personal philosophy - not good.

Punish the self centred individual who is unnecessarily taking up space on this planet by ignoring their future pleas for assistance.

I don't think you should pre-judge and consequently punish those who are most likely generous and reasonable people just because of the minority of idiots.

Some might say I am talking like a pathetic soft wimp.:o

No, I strongly detest and go out of my way to make the life of selfish people a misery.

I am the type of person who would goad a padeophile into jumping off a tall building just so I had something to pi$$ on.

A stranger in need of help - never a problem.

[ubeaut]

Email ISN'T always fast. Not everyone religiously checks it on a regular basis. There are also other reasons that a response may not have been sent including time constraints.

PM's are even slower in many instances as many don't receive email notification of a PM being sent and will only find it when logging on here and even then if they have popups blocked, a newbie may have trouble finding it or even realising they have one.

As said before in this thread many emails especially form here don't always get through because of firewalls, filters etc. I'm currently averaging around 35-40 returned or refused delivery notices per day.

send me the persons or username and I'll check if it was returned.

EMAILS AREN'T INSTANT.... For me they're often a pain in the bum. I'd happily pay the cost of a phone call rather then respond to emails that are often very, very, time consuming and almost never contain all the information needed, resulting in more time consuming replies. I'm sure I'm not the only one, who feels like this, especially if you're a busy person or in business.

Cheers - Neil :)

[Sturdee]

PM's are even slower in many instances as many don't receive email notification of a PM being sent and will only find it when logging on here and even then if they have popups blocked, a newbie may have trouble finding it or even realising they have one.



That's why an earlier system of PM's was great as you could see when the recipient opened/read the PM.


Peter.

[Cliff Rogers]

Yeap, you have to be a bit patient with computers & the Internet.

They may have internet problems, we often lost it for 6 days at a time up here.

They may have computer problems, it took me more than a month to get one mother board replaced under warranty.

They may also have been hit by a truck & are currently lying in hospital looking at the ceiling.

Have you seen the alleged offender log on here since?

[LGS]

Hi Cliff,

Yep. Twice.
But lets just let it go, shall we?

[Cliff Rogers]

Arh, right then.... I guess that you are on their ignore list. :D

I know I am on a couple 'cos I have posted a couple of replies to a few threads & the original poster has acknowledged other replies & not mine. :p :p :p

Nar, I bet they don't know how to use PMs.

[clubbyr8]

Wood Borer,

I agree, a couple of years ago I posted a link in the Incra Jigs forum that pointed to a file of a Incra Template maker. Apparently the link failed and so I offered to send the zip file (179Kb) to anyone that wanted it. I received several responses and sent the file as promised and only received one email thanking me. Makes you wonder about some people.

If I receive information or files or whatever from someone who has helped me, I (now) acknowledge their efforts with a greenie. Doesn't take much but it at least lets the recipient know I appreciate their efforts.

[Cliff Rogers]

.... I received several responses and sent the file as promised and only received one email thanking me. Makes you wonder about some people....
Yup, that is people for you.

People & E-mail are weird 'cos their mother didn't teach them e-mail etiquette.
(Some are just ignorant 'cos their mum didn't even teach them manners)

I sent out a bulk E-mail a while back to let everybody know that I have changed my E-mail address.
I had to tell one person 3 times & now they don't send me anything & yet another person is still sending (forwarding) heaps of crap e-mail, to the old address. :cool:

On another occasion I received a bulk virus warning with all the other recipient's e-mail addresses still attached. :rolleyes:
The warning said to go & find a particular file & delete it. :oo:
I did a 'reply all' & explained that it was a hoax & it would just damage your computer if you followed the instructions.
One of the recipients then gave me a roasting 'cos they thought that they were smart enough to work that out for themselves & that my e-mail had insulted their intelligence. :~

[echnidna]

One of the recipients then gave me a roasting 'cos they thought that they were smart enough to work that out for themselves & that my e-mail had insulted their intelligence. :~

so email them a genuine insult :D

[Wood Borer]

I become angry when I see rudeness and/or arrogance. Others seem to spend their lives forgiving the ignorant people.

Picture this:

1979 Toorak Rd South Yarra 6PM peak hour on a Friday night dark wet wintry night.

An old car broken down blocking all eastbound traffic. The driver trying to push start the car, other drivers just continuously tooting him.

A much younger Woodborer (with hair) driving a cab five cars behind the broken down vehicle. The Woodborer decides to assist for the benefit of everyone despite knowing he will get soaked to the skin.

WB tells the driver to get in, gives the clown instructions on how to start it when WB pushes it fast enough. The car is started and off it drives without any form of appreciation from the driver - not even a friendly wave.

WB walks soaked to the skin back to his cab which is now blocking the remaining traffic to be greeted with angry drivers tooting at WB because he is now holding up the traffic.

WB saw red. WB used quite colourful language and gestured at the impatient drivers suggesting that some should conceive and the rest could fall off the perch with painful cancer. (Not the exact words used).

WB is reported to the cab company for being a rude and inconsiderate cab driver.

What should WB have done? Apologise - never. :no:

I reckon I did the right thing and I have helped others out since but apparenty the other drivers felt I did the wrong thing by helping the stricken driver. They clearly demonstrated this by tooting at me despite seeing what I had done.

The ungrateful driver of the stricken car hopefully had a fatal head on with the next tram.

I see the behaviour of those who don't respond or acknowledge the assistance of others in the same category as those drivers on that cold wet Friday night.

[Gingermick]

Should have popped your bonnet and stood around scratching your head for a little while, just to really annoy them.

[MALPT]

And also, I think its hard for some new members to actually get involved, because they sense that all the regulars just want to talk to each other only. Plenty of regulars don't respond to new members questions as well. They just go off talking amongst themselves.




My 5.5c (GST incl) worth.......

As a newb, my first week or two was spent just trawling the wide and diverse knowledge base this forum contains .... so many wise ppl and solutions. I did however notice that there is a coterie of regular posters whose inter-relationships are friendly and familiar and to me seemed to be based on many years of postings back and forth.

This of course had the effect of making me reluctant to "push in" - in addition I felt there was little I could contribute on the posts involved as my knowledge (in woodworking areas) is very limited and the knowledge of, and banter between, "the regs" on most posts left little for me to add.

On the one of 2 posts (3 now I guess) where I thought I could contribute something I was basically told to pull my head in and my contribution was irrelevant....... so for some of us newbs it's a case of why bother....

That all said, I think it merely common decency to thank those who answer a question you have posted.... 'course common decency seems to be a rarer commodity these days, and I think it behoves all of us less knowledgable types to thank those who take the time and effort to respond to our questions and cries for help.

[Groggy]

My 5.5c (GST incl) worth.......

As a newb, my first week or two was spent just trawling the wide and diverse knowledge base this forum contains .... so many wise ppl and solutions. I did however notice that there is a coterie of regular posters whose inter-relationships are friendly and familiar and to me seemed to be based on many years of postings back and forth.

This of course had the effect of making me reluctant to "push in" - in addition I felt there was little I could contribute on the posts involved as my knowledge (in woodworking areas) is very limited and the knowledge of, and banter between, "the regs" on most posts left little for me to add.

On the one of 2 posts (3 now I guess) where I thought I could contribute something I was basically told to pull my head in and my contribution was irrelevant....... so for some of us newbs it's a case of why bother....

That all said, I think it merely common decency to thank those who answer a question you have posted.... 'course common decency seems to be a rarer commodity these days, and I think it behoves all of us less knowledgable types to thank those who take the time and effort to respond to our questions and cries for help.Here's a post worth reading twice - well said!

[Calm]

Here's a post worth reading twice - well said!

I totally agree Greg, a great post.


in addition I felt there was little I could contribute on the posts involved as my knowledge (in woodworking areas) is very limited and the knowledge of, and banter between, "the regs" on most posts left little for me to add.

Just remember Malpt that what you read is only someone else's opinion and you cant be sure that their knowledge is greater than yours. If you have a comment to make feel free to participate. The manners of others should not deter you from joining in - that is how you get to the point of the "interaction"

[Wood Borer]

:exactly::2tsup:

I guess most of us agree that just because you are snubbed, don't give up.

Applies equally to those giving advice, newbies and those who ask for help but nobody responds.

Well said MALPT - have a greenie.

[MALPT]

TY Groggy, Calm, Wood Borer.

It won't deter me! I'd like to think that I will be able to contribute from time to time.... isn't that the point of a forum such as this - hopefully we all have some idea/knowledge/skill which might help someone else (sometimes we don't even know we have it until someone else has asks).


Btw what's a greenie? (I did try searching but I got 458 posts of "well done have a greenie" and one "where'd my greenie go) - is it like the electronic version of a gummy bear or elephant stamp? :hooray: (I like gummy bears - used to give them to our staff - they thought it was just a saying until after the first week I actually gave them their weekly tally of sweets - no lookin back after that - they'd come up with great ideas and bargain with me that their idea was worth 2 or even 3 gbs not just a paltry one)

[DJ’s Timber]

Btw what's a greenie? (I did try searching but I got 458 posts of "well done have a greenie" and one "where'd my greenie go)

Here ya go, all you need to know about "greenies" (http://www.woodworkforums.com/faq.php?faq=vb_faq#faq_new_faq_item)

[Grahame Collins]

Hi guys,
I think it is a sign of the times,Rudeness and ignorance.Of course thats not from all new members ,but surely a good proportion of them.

We suffer the same thing in the metal work forum.Now and again member s get jack of new people logging in asking a question and are never heard of again.

They are all a pretty good mob and don't take kindly to the rudeness shown at times by some ignorant first time posters with attitude.


I try to greet new posters with a welcome and an invitation to introduce and expand upon and explain their problem so everyone who reads it can respond on the basis of full information first up.

There is nothing worse than going back to post after post to pull titbit's of basic info that could well have been included originally , so as the complete answer could be provided first up.

I will readily admit to occasionally forgetting my manners and doing a spot of rrs kicking when some newby has not even bothered about a basic introduction and started off with demanding behavior.

You can take the man out of the boilermaking, but you can't take the boilermaker out of the man.It only happens on the odd occasion.
My two bobs worth anyway
Grahame

[MALPT]

Here ya go, all you need to know about "greenies" (http://www.woodworkforums.com/faq.php?faq=vb_faq#faq_new_faq_item)

Thanks DJ !! (seems I cant eat them tho, sigh)


What a cool system - that is so handy! I've never seen that on a forum before. TY DJ for Info, and TY WB for the greenie.

[underfoot]

[quote=Cliff Rogers;702899]Yup, that is people for you.

People & E-mail are weird 'cos their mother didn't teach them e-mail etiquette.

people & E-mail are weird 'cos their kids didn't teach them e-mail etiquette.

[rsser]

My two bob's worth is that any newbie should get an email explaining forum etiquette; otherwise they'll take as what goes what they see.

The email should advise them to search first (and how to do it) before posting a question; to read all posts in a thread before replying; and to be aware that any community only survives on a balance of giving and taking. It should encourage them to close the loop if they've been given useful advice by saying what they tried and how it went.

There are some subforums here that I used to participate in regularly but no longer because they're clogged with simple questions that a search would have answered. And increasingly members read the first post, ignore the rest and then jump in with their response when the subject matter has already been covered. It's fine if they want to waste their time; the effect on me is to discourage engagement.

[Metal Head]

Hi,

I just came across this thread. I have often replied to the respondants by thanking them. I do this because of the upbringing I had which included thanking those you had taken time out of their busy schedules to help me.

I also look on it from a contributors point of view of thinking "well that person at least acknowleged my reply (contribution)" and as such should they want an answer to another query then no problem.

As the saying goes "I like to be treated the way I treat them":wink:.

Regards
MH