Give and Take Corrections with Grace

A topic that I address quite a bit based on Web site visitor inquiries is the ability to take corrections with grace. Almost daily someone e-mails me about how a friend, coworker or family member gets mad at them or calls them rude if they make the suggestion that Netiquette is in order.

I have a bunch of Web sites and I do tons of writing that requires I read, reread, and read again. I can go back to things I have written some time later and find errors that I missed. What happens is that some kind soul ends up at my Web site, generally they have experienced the "Invisible Error Syndrome" too, and they take the time to let me know so that I can make the appropriate corrections.

What do I do when I receive these e-mails? First, let me say that 9 out of 10 of the e-mail I receive are sent with genuine concern in wanting to help. However, there are those who feel the need to correct me as though I am a 5 year old that needs scolding all the while noting their accomplishments and self-promoting themselves. Fine -- either way I have been given the opportunity to learn something and correct my errors.

So, back to how I handle these "corrections." I thank them profusely and offer my humble apologies for missing it in the first place. See I take corrections in stride -- I am comfortable with the fact I am not perfect. If someone takes the time to help me out, regardless of tone, the result is the same. They have helped me to make my site or article better.

None of us are perfect. Many have never had any formal training or education when it comes to e-mail etiquette and proper technology use. And contrary to popular belief, the online world is not a free-for-all. There are living, breathing human beings behind these screens - all with feelings, most trying to do their best.

If it is pointed out to you in a kind manner that you need to work on your e-mail skills, or that you did something wrong online, don't get offended and huffy. Promptly thank the person who brought the issue to your attention. Then, go about correcting the situation and make efforts in the appropriate areas to resolve it for the long haul.

If you find someone else needs help with Netiquette, don't belittle them or make them feel stupid in how you suggest that they learn more on the subject. If you cannot make corrections or suggestions with kindness; then don't bother. I've never understood why some have to be intentionally rude or condescending when pointing out other's mistakes. I also do not understand why some folks react so negatively when being kindly corrected.

By helping other folks learn we are all doing a service to global community by making this environment one that is enjoyable for all to participate - because we are all on the same page. Don't get mad if you don't know everything yet, don't rest on your laurels and think that you do and don't kill the messenger if someone points that out to you!

Change, learn, grow and the online world will flourish with you!