An Etiquette Question.

[non-contradictor]

Maybe this will seem a bit silly, but since I am only fifteen and most members have a lot more knowledge and experience than I do, I am having some problems with the question of how to address other members. I do not know whether most members prefer first names (if known), screen names, or Mr./ Mrs. and a last name. My current policy has been to use screen names when no real name is available, and Mr./ Mrs. when it is. However a lot of times I forget and use first names. Do any of you have any thoughts on this? Preferences?

Edited February 11, 2005 by non-contradictor

[plaintext]

I prefer "Mr. Text". (just kidding).

[JMeganSnow]

Thus far I've been called Jen, Jenni, Jennifer, Megan, and Ms. Snow . . . the first four are fine but Ms. Snow is my mother.

[Hugh Akston]

They call me Dr. Akston

[DavidOdden]

If a member expresses a preference for a particular title e.g. Mr, Miss, Mizz, Dr. or whatever, then you should respect that particular wish. Otherwise the real name, plain and simple, or the pseudonym, would be preferred form of address. You may of course prefix a relevant title or professional designation as a special sign of respect, but you should be careful to understand that addressing "Mr. Smith" but "Tom Jones" makes a statement about who you disrespect. Though we had a visitor here who had the annoying habit of using titles in a sneering, disrespectful fashion. Repect is better conveyed by what you say, not the automatic use of titles.

That said, I prefer to be addressed as Your Excellency.

[non-contradictor]

If a member expresses a preference for a particular title e.g. Mr, Miss, Mizz, Dr. or whatever, then you should respect that particular wish.

Certainly, I was hoping, though perhaps I did not make it clear, that people could express their preferences for particular titles here.

Repect is better conveyed by what you say, not the automatic use of titles.

A very good point. But one name is just as easy to type as another, and I'd rather be respectful in all aspects (to people I respect).

That said, I prefer to be addressed as Your Excellency.

Okay, thank you for your reply Your Excellency.

[non-contradictor]

Thank you for your replies, Mr. Text , Jennifer, and Dr. Akston .

[Hugh Akston]

I was kidding about the formality. You can call me Hugh or Akston or Dr. Akston which ever you like.

[non-contradictor]

I figured you were, that's why I added the smiley. Maybe this one would have been preferrable. Hehehe, I could start a thread on smiley usage etiquette. (Just kidding)