> What we are, unapologetically, is hostile to people who seem to be unwilling to think or to do their own homework before asking questions. People like that are time sinks...
If people really thought of those questions as time sinks, they wouldn't bother responding. The aggravated forum response smacks more of a perverted delight in bullying the novice.
And I understand the impulse. You've just answered the same question three times, and get it again? What gives!? Someone should smack these people!
But if people are asking the same questions over and over, it's time to take another look at your search/FAQ/layout. If people are hostile to other people on your forum, it shouldn't be dismissed as "they just love challenging questions." It's time to fix your buggy culture.
Someone should write a companion piece working on the other end. How to Answer (Stupid) Questions the Smart Way:
1. If hate customer service, let someone else handle it.
If people really thought of those questions as time sinks, they wouldn't bother responding. The aggravated forum response smacks more of a perverted delight in bullying the novice.
And I understand the impulse. You've just answered the same question three times, and get it again? What gives!? Someone should smack these people!
But if people are asking the same questions over and over, it's time to take another look at your search/FAQ/layout. If people are hostile to other people on your forum, it shouldn't be dismissed as "they just love challenging questions." It's time to fix your buggy culture.
Someone should write a companion piece working on the other end. How to Answer (Stupid) Questions the Smart Way:
1. If hate customer service, let someone else handle it.
2. Provide the most efficient answer.
3. Don't question the question.
4. Assume good faith (to crib from Wikipedia).
5. ...