On my 8th Year Anniversary Here - I too have something to say about participation.
Stone193
Posts: 24,438 ✭✭✭✭✭
Hi Everyone
I decided to give my POV on this topic and have read some superb input about board participation and any hindrances that may occur.
First – I’ve reached 8 full years here – which in the world of internet chat is like dog years!
The number of years and the amount of posts one has does not incur any privilege or special qualification.
Whether I have 10 or 10,000 posts, I expect – like others to be respected – but I have to EARN that respect.
Now – for the newcomers? I think showing a little deference to the veterans will go a long way – since – if ya give it a little time – one might find out that they may just have something to say and can offer a bit of helpful knowledge.
I agree with those who say - it’s best to make an attempt to endure and overlook some of the negative comments and just keep adding positive input.
Positive input – informative threads – even if they get few responses DO put a better spin on our forum.
Going forward I would like to offer some advice:
1. Our forum can use more informational threads and stories about ones experiences in the hobby. I know ebay topics have increased – and unless someone is bent on being heard – perhaps an ongoing “Official” Ebay Thread might just be what the Doctor ordered?
2. Consider using the “PREVIEW” button before posting – many times – when I preview something I realize I can say something better and in some instances more diplomatically. Keep in mind – one of the biggest flame jobs against a poster – Davilillo – was started by me because I jumped the gun! Another being my good buddy Matt – Lawnmower because I was hyped up and didn’t separate myself from the issue for a bit.
3. I think many times what’s being said openly here can better be dealt with behind the scenes – PM or email. Now I’m not trying to curtail free speech – I’m talking – more – about personal attacks. It’ll keep some from having to publicly apologize – after the fact.
4. I like humor more than most – and I especially like ‘trashy’ threads on a Fri or Sat. Nite – but in some cases – threads are being dreadfully hijacked with posts that add nothing and may not be the appropriate moment for them. I pulled a thread before Christmas because it was hijacked by people I didn’t really know and didn’t find it humorous. I guess what I’m saying? When you put something OT in a thread – it wouldn’t hurt to know the audience and think a bit whether it’s appropriate or not. There’s more of that behavior than I recollect in past moons.
5. If we see a thread – even if it’s not our bailywick – and it appears to have taken the author some time to put together or is excited about something they’ve completed – like Chad who finished a really tough Dixie set – but because it “wasn’t” cards – got little play…. Hey! It takes 2 secs out of our existence to congratulate him IMO. Now, I know this can seem like dictating or pontificating – but come on – who doesn’t like to get an attaboy?
I think this pretty much covers some of how I feel. I – too – have been disappointed in the direction of our forum.
My dad taught me – if I can’t say something nice? Well I think you get the point.
Let’s give the new year a positive spin and try to be more generous with our good will and enjoy each other’s presence here. I know there will always be flame wars but if some of the people who’ve been here for a spell don’t speak out? Then who?
Take care – your friend
mike
edit: I mixed up Matt with Chad when I posted - fixed today.
I decided to give my POV on this topic and have read some superb input about board participation and any hindrances that may occur.
First – I’ve reached 8 full years here – which in the world of internet chat is like dog years!
The number of years and the amount of posts one has does not incur any privilege or special qualification.
Whether I have 10 or 10,000 posts, I expect – like others to be respected – but I have to EARN that respect.
Now – for the newcomers? I think showing a little deference to the veterans will go a long way – since – if ya give it a little time – one might find out that they may just have something to say and can offer a bit of helpful knowledge.
I agree with those who say - it’s best to make an attempt to endure and overlook some of the negative comments and just keep adding positive input.
Positive input – informative threads – even if they get few responses DO put a better spin on our forum.
Going forward I would like to offer some advice:
1. Our forum can use more informational threads and stories about ones experiences in the hobby. I know ebay topics have increased – and unless someone is bent on being heard – perhaps an ongoing “Official” Ebay Thread might just be what the Doctor ordered?
2. Consider using the “PREVIEW” button before posting – many times – when I preview something I realize I can say something better and in some instances more diplomatically. Keep in mind – one of the biggest flame jobs against a poster – Davilillo – was started by me because I jumped the gun! Another being my good buddy Matt – Lawnmower because I was hyped up and didn’t separate myself from the issue for a bit.
3. I think many times what’s being said openly here can better be dealt with behind the scenes – PM or email. Now I’m not trying to curtail free speech – I’m talking – more – about personal attacks. It’ll keep some from having to publicly apologize – after the fact.
4. I like humor more than most – and I especially like ‘trashy’ threads on a Fri or Sat. Nite – but in some cases – threads are being dreadfully hijacked with posts that add nothing and may not be the appropriate moment for them. I pulled a thread before Christmas because it was hijacked by people I didn’t really know and didn’t find it humorous. I guess what I’m saying? When you put something OT in a thread – it wouldn’t hurt to know the audience and think a bit whether it’s appropriate or not. There’s more of that behavior than I recollect in past moons.
5. If we see a thread – even if it’s not our bailywick – and it appears to have taken the author some time to put together or is excited about something they’ve completed – like Chad who finished a really tough Dixie set – but because it “wasn’t” cards – got little play…. Hey! It takes 2 secs out of our existence to congratulate him IMO. Now, I know this can seem like dictating or pontificating – but come on – who doesn’t like to get an attaboy?
I think this pretty much covers some of how I feel. I – too – have been disappointed in the direction of our forum.
My dad taught me – if I can’t say something nice? Well I think you get the point.
Let’s give the new year a positive spin and try to be more generous with our good will and enjoy each other’s presence here. I know there will always be flame wars but if some of the people who’ve been here for a spell don’t speak out? Then who?
Take care – your friend
mike
edit: I mixed up Matt with Chad when I posted - fixed today.
Mike
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for your 17999th post
MULLINS5,1966CUDA,nam812,nightcrawler,OAKESY25,PowderedH2O,relaxed,RonBurgundy,samsgirl214,shagrotn77,swartz1,slantycouch,Statman,Wabittwax
Good to see ya Mike!
<< <i>Whether I have 10 or 10,000 posts, I expect – like others to be respected – but I have to EARN that respect. >>
You are probably one of the most respected members in our community.
Fantastic post!
MY GOLD TYPE SET https://pcgs.com/setregistry/type-sets/complete-type-sets/gold-type-set-12-piece-circulation-strikes-1839-1933/publishedset/321940
i won't forget that.
Currently collecting 1934 Butterfinger, 1969 Nabisco, 1991 Topps Desert Shield (in PSA 9 or 10), and 1990 Donruss Learning Series (in PSA 10).
"Molon Labe"
eyebone
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Ralph
Mike, thanks for the reminder of how board decorum should be. Long-term members might remember that I started a couple of these types of threads in years past. Things have gotten pretty bad here more than once. This time of trouble will pass, things will get better, and things will at some point get bad again. Wash, rinse, repeat. For what it's worth, I apologize to the board at large for my part.
Dodgers collection scans | Brett Butler registry | 1978 Dodgers - straight 9s, homie
I don't post much at all but do read a lot of threads. (my billion posts came in the old open forum and from the coin forum when I was HEAVY into key dates)
<< <i>when I joined up, it didn't take me long to realize that Mike was one of the best guys here. I tried to pattern my behavior after him. I succeeded for quite some time, although that's not so apparent these days. I know I've become part of the reason things can and have spiraled out of control here. Somewhere along the line, I reached the point where the seemingly nonstop flow of alts, inane (and repetitive) questions and resident ***** (insert derogatory term here) caused me to respond with sarcasm, random humor and sometimes confrontation. Somewhere along the line I stopped being a cheerleader of what others were collecting. Somewhere along the line I stopped wanting to be as helpful. Somewhere along the line I decided I'd rather be one of the board smartasses than keep my mouth shut.
Mike, thanks for the reminder of how board decorum should be. Long-term members might remember that I started a couple of these types of threads in years past. Things have gotten pretty bad here more than once. This time of trouble will pass, things will get better, and things will at some point get bad again. Wash, rinse, repeat. For what it's worth, I apologize to the board at large for my part. >>
Round and round we go. I have no idea what you just said.
Thanks for being a positive influence on the forums.
Geordie...you have always been a stand up guy. The problems around here as of late, dont reflect your reputation in my book.
MY GOLD TYPE SET https://pcgs.com/setregistry/type-sets/complete-type-sets/gold-type-set-12-piece-circulation-strikes-1839-1933/publishedset/321940
I've got a lot invested here and as was said - cycles, cycles - but sometimes it's necessary to "prime the pump" I guess?
Geordie - those were profound words and you should be commended for speaking up - I don't know of the Geordie you were speaking of - I've always found you to be one of the good guys here.
Over the next few weeks I pledge to put up some threads on some hobby stuff I have on file - though it may bore some - since it's "not" cards but memorabilia.
hope everything works out.
Geordie no need to apologize. (at least I don't think so) I think most of us who have been around for awhile no exactly how you feel.
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<< <i>
didn't work . . .
1. Talk to other board members the way you would like them to talk to you.
2. If you do not agree with a post, there are ways to respond without jumping down the OP's throat and ripping him apart.
3. If someone breaks a board rule let them know in a nice way. If they ignore all the comments and continue to repeat the same "habit", then you can rip 'em a new one!
4. Enjoy the boards for what they are ... a place to relax ... learn new things from very knowledgeable people in the card world ... have fun trading or selling with fellow guys who probably don't have many people in real life that they can share their love with for pictures of men on cardboard.
5. Although we would all enjoy making money from cards, enjoy the HOBBY a little more. I have had more fun over the past few years after I had to sell my valuable collection than I did when I had a lot of money into the hobby.
6. Stay Active. Try to give a little and not always ask for things.
7. BE HUMBLE. You never know what life is going to bring you down the road. I am living proof of that.
Doug
Liquidating my collection for the 3rd and final time. Time for others to enjoy what I have enjoyed over the last several decades. Money could be put to better use.
<< <i>Very well said Mike. I'd like to add just a little summary of my thoughts on ways to make this board better.
1. Talk to other board members the way you would like them to talk to you.
2. If you do not agree with a post, there are ways to respond without jumping down the OP's throat and ripping him apart.
3. If someone breaks a board rule let them know in a nice way. If they ignore all the comments and continue to repeat the same "habit", then you can rip 'em a new one!
4. Enjoy the boards for what they are ... a place to relax ... learn new things from very knowledgeable people in the card world ... have fun trading or selling with fellow guys who probably don't have many people in real life that they can share their love with for pictures of men on cardboard.
5. Although we would all enjoy making money from cards, enjoy the HOBBY a little more. I have had more fun over the past few years after I had to sell my valuable collection than I did when I had a lot of money into the hobby.
6. Stay Active. Try to give a little and not always ask for things.
7. BE HUMBLE. You never know what life is going to bring you down the road. I am living proof of that. >>
+1
I too have a few members that rub me the wrong way, and as much as I can lately, I refrain from making any comments towards them.
I learned a ton of great information when I joined these boards, but i can't say I've enjoyed them as much lately. Hopefully that will change moving forward.
Chad
Well said.
Dave
Doug great follow up as well.
"Live everyday, don't throw it away"
<< <i>Thank you Mike for your thoughts. Although like anyone here, I didn't do the Dixie Lids set to get a pat on the back, it was eye-opening how few members seemed to care.
I too have a few members that rub me the wrong way, and as much as I can lately, I refrain from making any comments towards them.
I learned a ton of great information when I joined these boards, but i can't say I've enjoyed them as much lately. Hopefully that will change moving forward.
Chad >>
Hiya Chad!
Thanx and I just edited my OP - I said Matt instead of Chad - I apologize for the error.
Doug those are great additional points. I especially agree with treating other board members the way you would like them to treat you.
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep."
"Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans."
Collecting:
Any unopened Baseball cello and rack packs and boxes from the 1970's and early 1980s.
Well said!
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David (LD_Ferg)
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<< <i>"Mouth in motion before brain engaged" >>
Sean ... I think we all have those moments.
Doug
Liquidating my collection for the 3rd and final time. Time for others to enjoy what I have enjoyed over the last several decades. Money could be put to better use.
<< <i>
<< <i>"Mouth in motion before brain engaged" >>
Sean ... I think we all have those moments. >>
Agree also Doug.
Now to Matt and Tom - I would hate to see either one of you leave. You both bring your own brand of influence to our forum.
Important: I learned from all of you last nite about participation - for me - it was rash and selfish to just blame the boards for their flaws and disappear - when the right thing to do - as was said - to drown out the noise - and continue to see the "good" information that flows.
I'm quite proud of the way we came together on this one.
And - for the record - everyone - including me - likes a little train wreck from time to time.
<< <i>And - for the record - everyone - including me - likes a little train wreck from time to time.
Doug
Liquidating my collection for the 3rd and final time. Time for others to enjoy what I have enjoyed over the last several decades. Money could be put to better use.
1963 Fleer
Lou Brock Master Set
Hi Matt!