Online Etiquette: Why Shouting is Bad (And Other Online Faux Pas…)

Etiquette is just as important online as it is in a face-to-face meeting, and making your briefs and pitches look professional is key to both making a good impression and getting the responses you want.

It’s easier than you think to completely scare off a potential collaborator, so follow our advice to avoid the most common online faux pas and make your talent and creativity shine for the right reasons.

1. DON’T SHOUT 

THE LOGIC BEHIND THIS ONE IS SIMPLE. BY USING ALL CAPS YOU’RE MAKING YOUR AD STAND OUT AMONG THE CROWD.

Sure you’re standing out… but is it in the right way?

All caps is the online equivalent of shouting and all you’ll actually achieve is that your ad (and by extension, you) will look unappealing and aggressive.

Would you yell your ideas in a formal meeting? Probably not. And it’s the same online.

2. Give detail 

Got an amazing idea? Then tell people about it!

By explaining a bit more about the goals and aims of a project, you’ll attract like-minded collaborators or artists.

It’s no use telling people you want to do so “something” – tell them what that something is!

3. The boring stuff: spelling, grammar, etc…

Yes, you’ve had it drilled into you all your life and you’re sick of it.

But it’s for a reason and the bottom line is simple: spell check, spell check, spell check (and use punctuation).

Treat it like you would a cover letter or a resumé. In the creative industry, this is the first impression you’ll make.

4. Be honest (and communicate) 

What are your expectations? Your time frame? How much do you expect to be paid (or how much are you willing to pay?)

These are questions you need to ask yourself before someone else asks you. Be ready to answer and do not lie.

And this should continue throughout the creative process: stay in touch with your client/buyer/collaborator during the planning phase and beyond.

Ready to get hired? At Twine, we have dozens of top-quality jobs being posted each and every day. From design to marketing, development to copywriting – there’s a job ready for your skills. Join the marketplace of creative talent here.