AOL File Library: 301 to 400

home *** CD-ROM | disk | FTP | other *** search

/ AOL File Library: 301 to 400 / aol-file-protocol-4400-301-to-400.zip / AOLDLs / Forum Suggestions / APPLEIIc / CM1196D2.txt next >

Wrap

Text File | 2014-09-12 | 61KB | 1,520 lines

in mind while greeting: VLA Stem: - Try to greet members as soon as they enter the... VLA Stem: room, or within 30 seconds. If one of the first... ITGregH: back VLA Stem: things they see when they arrive is a greeting,... VLA Stem: rather than an empty chat window or confusing... VLA Stem: chat, they'll be more likely to stay. VLA Stem: - Avoid using auto-greeters whenever possible. VLA Stem: Members can usually spot this, and it can make... VLA Stem: them seem more like just another name rather... VLA Stem: than a welcomed participant in your chat. VLA Stem: Auto-greeters should only be used in... VLA Stem: exceptionally busy rooms (over 20 people at once). VLA Stem: - You should use a member's screen name and ... VLA Stem: not a name that doesn't relate to it, even if... VLA Stem: they have asked you to call them that. VLA Stem: If you use their given name or a nickname,... VLA Stem: other members may not recognize who you are... VLA Stem: talking to, and they could feel left out of the... VLA Stem: discussion. It *is* ok to remove the numbers... VLA Stem: from a screen name, though. ;) VLA Stem: - You should also try to keep your greetings to... VLA Stem: one line so they don't get lost in the other chat. VLA Stem: It is ok to mention the topic on a second line,... VLA Stem: though, as that usually needs more space. :) VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: There is also some debate as to whether or not it... VLA Stem: is ok to *IM* the greeting rather than type it... VLA Stem: right in the chat room. Personally, I feel it is... VLA Stem: best to greet each member in the chat room. VLA Stem: The greeting is right in the room, which is where... VLA Stem: their attention is when they enter, and it cues... VLA Stem: the others in the chat that there is a newcomer,... VLA Stem: which may provoke greetinVLA Course Log Name: Chat Management 101 -- Class 2 of 3 Date: 11/14/96 Time: 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm ET Location: VLA Workshop Trainer: VLA Stem Trainer Assistant: VLA Scot Topics covered: Chat preparation, promoting, hosting, greetings, macros/palettes, difficult/special members, precepts, logging, reporting. Participating Cadets: CosmoSplat, DisneyDeer, DVealArt, IT Bryan, ITGregH, Mik540, OGFGryphon, OLPDebbie, WB Alice Others: N/A ======================================================= VLA Stem: Before I begin class, I'd like to thank you for... DisneyDeer: Oh oh, you can't say no,,,,to Honey Nut Cheerios VLA Stem: completing your assignment! I have sent comments... VLA Stem: back on all those which were received. If you didn't... VLA Stem: receive comments or have questions, let me know! VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Did anyone have any questions on what we went... VLA Stem: over in our last class, on your assignment, or on... VLA Stem: tonight's required reading? >ga CosmoSplat: >ga OGFGryphon: >ga WB Alice: >ga DisneyDeer: >ga ITGregH: >ga OLPDebbie: >ga IT Bryan: >ga VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Ok! A couple more things -- everyone should... VLA Stem: bring up their sample hosting palettes so we.. VLA Stem: can be sure you'll be ready for an exercise later... VLA Stem: on during the class. Please type ">ga" when you... VLA Stem: have your hosting palette onscreen. >ga VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Also, I'll need you to turn on your chat logs... VLA Stem: You'll need your log for your assignment... VLA Stem: which we'll explain at the end of class. VLA Stem: Does everyone know how to... VLA Stem: log this class? If you do, type ">ga." If you need... VLA Stem: help, please let me know! >ga OGFGryphon: >ga CosmoSplat: >ga DisneyDeer: >ga OLPDebbie: ? ITGregH: ? VLA Stem: Debbie? OLPDebbie: Ok, I have to admit that I didn't get all the reading done. What is a hosting pallette? ... OLPDebbie: I do know how to log. WB Alice: >ga OLPDebbie: >ga VLA Stem: The hosting palette is a text file that you will copy and paste from, to VLA Stem: greet members, answer questions...do you need a copy of it? OLPDebbie: Uhhh, I think so. Can I get it now or is it to late? >ga VLA Stem: Scot will tell you how to get it via IMs (since mail isn't working)... IT Bryan: Sorry, I need one too, too busy running my freelnace business and forgot. ITGregH: I do too<blush>, >ga VLA Stem: those of you who don't have the palette can you raise your hands? ITGregH: ! VLA Scot: Okie... Bryan and Debbie.... ;-) OLPDebbie: Now I don't feel so bad! DisneyDeer: I got it from the class materials and just ninimized it.. ITGregH: And Greg. VLA Stem: Debbie...you're never alone :D VLA Stem: Great Disney...that's what you're supposed to do :D DisneyDeer: OK, VLA Scot: Okie... Greg... :-) VLA Stem: Greg? Did you have a separate question or was it about the palette? ITGregH: My question was about the palette. ITGregH: My cat ate mine<g> VLA Stem: OK...are there any other questions on the palette or on logging? IT Bryan: LOL! VLA Stem: LOL Greg :) WB Alice: >ga OGFGryphon: I can't resist... Did your cat find it palettable, Greg? ITGregH: LOL DisneyDeer: ROFL VLA Stem: LOL OGFGryphon: >ga VLA Stem: OK...we're moving on now :D VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Welcome to the second hosting class! :) VLA Stem: We've built the foundation in our last class with... VLA Stem: the information on host demeanor and communication. VLA Stem: Now we'll add hosting tips and techniques to host... VLA Stem: a chat from start to finish! VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: We will cover the following topics tonight: VLA Stem: - Preparing for your chat VLA Stem: - Promoting your chat VLA Stem: - Hosting your chat (greeting, topics, etc.) VLA Stem: - Logging your chat VLA Stem: - Compiling your chat report VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Are we ready to begin? If so, please type ">ga." DisneyDeer: >ga ITGregH: >ga OGFGryphon: >ga OLPDebbie: >ga CosmoSplat: >ga IT Bryan: >ga WB Alice: >ga VLA Stem: Great! VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: *****Preparing For Your Chat***** VLA Stem: As fun and spontaneous as chats can be,... VLA Stem: it is essential that you get ready for your... VLA Stem: chat in advance. Not only does it help you... VLA Stem: prepare, but it will help you enjoy your chat... VLA Stem: that much more. Preparing for your chat doesn't... VLA Stem: need to be a chore, and it isn't hard. Here are... VLA Stem: some helpful hints: VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: 1. Decide on a topic. Depending upon the nature... VLA Stem: of your chat room, you should pick an appropriate... VLA Stem: topic to talk about ahead of time. Even chat rooms... VLA Stem: where "anything goes" can benefit from a chosen... VLA Stem: topic to fall back on if folks are unusually quiet. VLA Stem: Choosing topics for your chat is almost an art... VLA Stem: and it is one that you'll perfect with experience. VLA Stem: The right topics for your chat will depend upon... VLA Stem: the regulars who frequent it, the current "buzz"... VLA Stem: on the streets, and your own interests. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: We suggest you sit down and brainstorm a number... VLA Stem: of topics that you'd like to talk about in your chat. VLA Stem: This will give you a pool to draw from and give... VLA Stem: you time to read up on it, if necessary. VLA Stem: If you are at a loss for topic ideas, here are... VLA Stem: some good places to look: VLA Stem: - Related web sites VLA Stem: - Past chat topics (try your chat log library) VLA Stem: - Your chat members' suggestions VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: 2. Once you've decided on a topic, you should come... VLA Stem: up with some questions about your topic that you... VLA Stem: can ask if you need to "jumpstart" your chat. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: For example, if your chat's topic were... VLA Stem: "Peace on Earth: Is It Obtainable?," you could ask... VLA Stem: questions like these: VLA Stem: - Let's define what we think "peace" means. VLA Stem: What do you guys think? VLA Stem: - Have we ever had peace? VLA Stem: - What would it take to become peaceful? VLA Stem: - Etc. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Just jot these down in a document, or add them to... VLA Stem: your Hosting Palette -- then you can use them when... VLA Stem: you need to add new life to your chat. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: 3. Promote your chat. We'll be talking about this... VLA Stem: in more detail later. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: 4. Prepare your Hosting Palette for your chat. VLA Stem: This may mean customizing your greetings with your... VLA Stem: intended topic, adding in your topic questions,... VLA Stem: or adding information you want to share with your... VLA Stem: members during the chat. Having it in your palette... VLA Stem: and at hand will make your chat much smoother. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: 5. Before your chat, get the following things ready: VLA Stem: - A pencil and paper, so you can jot things down... VLA Stem: should you need to do it faster than the... VLA Stem: computer will allow or you have a problem. VLA Stem: I keep a special notebook by my computer for this! VLA Stem: - References you might need, like a dictionary,... VLA Stem: thesaurus, magazines or books, your Hosting... VLA Stem: Manual, etc. Anything you might need to host. VLA Stem: - A supply of soda, snacks and tissues so you... VLA Stem: don't have to get up in the middle of the chat. VLA Stem: - Your Hosting Palette pulled up and positioned... VLA Stem: on your screen. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: 6. Sign on a few minutes earlier than you need to. VLA Stem: We all know how our nodes can cause problems and... VLA Stem: that it sometimes can take a few tries to get online. VLA Stem: Attempting to get online earlier will give you... VLA Stem: some extra time if you encounter a problem. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: 7. Immediately before your chat, take a trip to... VLA Stem: the restroom and hug your spouse/kids/pet or... VLA Stem: significant other. ;) VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Basically, that is it! You may have other things... VLA Stem: you'll need to do before your particular chat. VLA Stem: Over time, you'll develop your own habits and find... VLA Stem: what works best for you. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Are there any questions on preparing for your chat? VLA Stem: >ga WB Alice: >ga OGFGryphon: >ga IT Bryan: >ga DisneyDeer: >ga CosmoSplat: >ga ITGregH: >ga OLPDebbie: >ga DVealArt: Hi, sorry I'm late, I taught a bunch of girlscouts how to do caricatures and >ga VLA Stem: That's OK DVeal! Glad you could make it :D VLA Stem: <---wants my caricature done <giggle> ITGregH: DVeal, you didn't do as badly as I did last week. IT Bryan: LOL! DVealArt: I feel better now! VLA Stem: So does everyone have their hosting palette up on the screen now? (DVeal, you'll VLA Stem: need to grab your hosting palette and have it up on the screen with you, you also VLA Stem: need to be logging this class) ITGregH: brb DisneyDeer: ready! >ga OGFGryphon: >ga WB Alice: >Ga CosmoSplat: yep >ga DVealArt: Were? IT Bryan: >ga VLA Stem: DVeal, Scot will help you get set up :D DVealArt: :D >ga VLA Stem: OK...our goal tonight is to see the beginning of ER :D VLA Stem: So let's continue on :D VLA Stem: <---pathetic....I know... IT Bryan: ROFL! VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: *****Promoting Your Chat***** VLA Stem: As you read in "Promoting Your Chat," there are.... VLA Stem: several ways you can promote your chat to members. VLA Stem: Promoting is important, especially when your chat... VLA Stem: is new and you haven't developed a following yet. VLA Stem: I won't go over all of them as you've already... VLA Stem: learned about them, but I do want to touch on the... VLA Stem: important ones and answer any questions you may... VLA Stem: have about promotion. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: The best way to promote your chat is simply this: VLA Stem: Host your best and have a great chat. VLA Stem: Great chats have a way of becoming known to others... VLA Stem: in ways you may not have even thought possible. VLA Stem: Word of mouth is your best promotional tool. :) VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: As all of you are personable, engaging people... VLA Stem: it follows that you have acquaintances and friends! VLA Stem: Let them know about your hosting and when you host! VLA Stem: Not only does it bring people into your room,... VLA Stem: but you'd be surprised at how much a well-known... VLA Stem: face can make you feel relaxed and confident! :D VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Another way of promoting your chat is by making... VLA Stem: "room tours" in the People Connection (PC). VLA Stem: As you probably already know, the PC is *full* of... VLA Stem: members, many who haven't found their place online. VLA Stem: By promoting in there, you can bring in new folks... VLA Stem: and help the PC's overpopulation problem. ;) VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Room tours need to be done properly, though, or... VLA Stem: they won't work and you'll end up stepping on the... VLA Stem: toes of hosts and Guides you inadvertently... VLA Stem: intrude upon. Follow the procedures in the... VLA Stem: "Promoting Your Chat" document carefully for these. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Mailers are really good for business, but again,... VLA Stem: only if done properly. Many of you sent what... VLA Stem: could be considered mailers (or a basis for them)... VLA Stem: in your last assignment. Many areas actually... VLA Stem: collect the information for all their chats and... VLA Stem: send out *one* piece of mail to everyone in a... VLA Stem: mailing list -- check to see if your area does... VLA Stem: this or would be willing to arrange it. It cuts... VLA Stem: down on the amount of mail your members receive... VLA Stem: and it helps cross-promote between regulars of... VLA Stem: different chats. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Are there any questions on promoting? >ga WB Alice: >ga OLPDebbie: >ga CosmoSplat: >ga OGFGryphon: >ga DisneyDeer: >ga IT Bryan: >ga VLA Stem: Great! VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: *****Hosting Your Chat***** VLA Stem: Now we come to the what many of you think of... VLA Stem: as hosting -- what you actually do while you are... VLA Stem: in your chat room. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: As a host, you will need to learn the fine art... VLA Stem: of greeting and the other little things... VLA Stem: to make members feel welcome and wanted! :D VLA Stem: I can't tell you how many times a member has... VLA Stem: expressed sincere gratitude at just having been... VLA Stem: welcomed into a room. It really does... VLA Stem: make a difference. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: A greeting welcomes and invites members to stay... VLA Stem: and join in the discussion as an active participant. VLA Stem: When a member first enters the room, you should... VLA Stem: send a greeting ASAP with their screen name,... VLA Stem: the room/topic name that applies,... VLA Stem: and a welcome/invitation to stay and chat. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: For example: VLA Stem: Member123! Welcome to Heaven! Pull up a cloud... VLA Stem: and chat for a bit. We're discussing Peace on Earth. :) VLA Stem: -or- VLA Stem: Greetings, Member123! We're discussing the future... VLA Stem: of media publications. Stay and chat with us a bit! VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: It is perfectly acceptable to greet more than... VLA Stem: one person at a time - in fact it is necessary when... VLA Stem: you've got a revolving door room! ;> VLA Stem: For example: VLA Stem: Member123! User456! Guest789! Welcome to the Heaven! VLA Stem: We're discussing angels tonight. O;> VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Some important things to keep in mind while greeting: VLA Stem: - Try to greet members as soon as they enter the... VLA Stem: room, or within 30 seconds. If one of the first... ITGregH: back VLA Stem: things they see when they arrive is a greeting,... VLA Stem: rather than an empty chat window or confusing... VLA Stem: chat, they'll be more likely to stay. VLA Stem: - Avoid using auto-greeters whenever possible. VLA Stem: Members can usually spot this, and it can make... VLA Stem: them seem more like just another name rather... VLA Stem: than a welcomed participant in your chat. VLA Stem: Auto-greeters should only be used in... VLA Stem: exceptionally busy rooms (over 20 people at once). VLA Stem: - You should use a member's screen name and ... VLA Stem: not a name that doesn't relate to it, even if... VLA Stem: they have asked you to call them that. VLA Stem: If you use their given name or a nickname,... VLA Stem: other members may not recognize who you are... VLA Stem: talking to, and they could feel left out of the... VLA Stem: discussion. It *is* ok to remove the numbers... VLA Stem: from a screen name, though. ;) VLA Stem: - You should also try to keep your greetings to... VLA Stem: one line so they don't get lost in the other chat. VLA Stem: It is ok to mention the topic on a second line,... VLA Stem: though, as that usually needs more space. :) VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: There is also some debate as to whether or not it... VLA Stem: is ok to *IM* the greeting rather than type it... VLA Stem: right in the chat room. Personally, I feel it is... VLA Stem: best to greet each member in the chat room. VLA Stem: The greeting is right in the room, which is where... VLA Stem: their attention is when they enter, and it cues... VLA Stem: the others in the chat that there is a newcomer,... VLA Stem: which may provoke greetings from them as well. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: IMed greetings are best left to chats with... VLA Stem: guest speakers where protocol is being used. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Are there any questions about greetings? /ga DisneyDeer: >ga IT Bryan: >ga CosmoSplat: >ga ITGregH: >ga OGFGryphon: >ga OLPDebbie: >ga WB Alice: ga VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Let's practice doing a greeting! VLA Stem: I'd like you each to type out a greeting to the... VLA Stem: next person who comes into the room. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: You should use this room name (VLA Workshop)... VLA Stem: and our topic (Hosting Techniques). VLA Stem: Be warm, welcoming, and feel free to let your... VLA Stem: own style show through! ;> VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Ready? >ga DisneyDeer: >ga WB Alice: >ga OGFGryphon: >ga CosmoSplat: >ga IT Bryan: >ga ITGregH: >ga OLPDebbie: >ga PowerChat: á PowerChat: *** Entered VLA Workshop on 11/14/96 at 08:24 PM *** PowerChat: á DisneyDeer: There's VLA Scot! Welcome to the VLA Workshop! CosmoSplat: Hello, VLA Scot, and welcome to VLA Workshop! Tonight we're discussing Hosting CosmoSplat: Techniques. Feel free to join in the discussion! OGFGryphon: Hola, VLA Scot! Welcome to the VLA Workshop. Tonight's topic is... IT Bryan: VLA Scot, welcome to the VLA Workshop, we're discussing hosting techniques. DisneyDeer: We are discussing Hosting Techniques, join in! OGFGryphon: Hosting Techniques. Pull up a rock and tell us what you think! WB Alice: Hi VLA scot welcome to VLA Workshop....we are discussing host techniques ;-) ITGregH: VLA Scot! Welcome to VLA Workshop! Pull up a chair and chat! OLPDebbie: Hi VLA Scot! Welcome to the VLA Workshop. Tonight we're dicussing chat techniques. VLA Stem: Wonderful job folks!!! VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: My greeting may have been: VLA Scot: Gosh such a welcome... :-) VLA Stem: VLA Scot! Welcome to the VLA Workshop! Tonight... VLA Stem: we're discussing hosting techniques. Please join us! :D VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: There are no hard and fast rules about how... VLA Stem: simple or elaborate you should be when greeting. VLA Stem: That will depend upon the tone of your room and... VLA Stem: your own particular style. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: I've always leaned towards enthusiastic greetings,... VLA Stem: but I find that I tone them down when the... VLA Stem: atmosphere seems more serious, when I perceive... VLA Stem: that an exuberant greeting would be disrupting or... VLA Stem: when my own mood is quiet and subdued. VLA Stem: In general, though, I find that *my* enthusiasm... VLA Stem: and cheerfulness will carry over to the members. :) VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Your greeting will often set the tone of the room. VLA Stem: Remember, the goal is to make them feel welcome! VLA Stem: Any greeting that achieves this is successful. VLA Stem: Don't feel you have to be overly smiley or go wild... VLA Stem: on the exclamation key, just be warm and friendly. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Macros/palettes are very very useful in... VLA Stem: greeting members because it allows you to catch... VLA Stem: them as they walk in the door. VLA Stem: (We will go over macros and palettes later.) VLA Stem: But there is an important point I want to mention: VLA Stem: *Please* vary your greetings from guest to guest! VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: There's nothing so uninviting as watching the host... VLA Stem: greet every newcomer in the exact same way. :/ VLA Stem: Like autogreets, it makes them feel like just... VLA Stem: another name, not a special and welcomed individual. VLA Stem: When hosting, I have about 8-10 general greetings... VLA Stem: and 6 room/topic specific ones and I use all of them! VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Another important point is to create your... VLA Stem: own greetings because if all the hosts use... VLA Stem: the same ones, people *will* notice after a while! VLA Stem: You are all unique, not cookie-cutter hosts. ;> VLA Stem: Use your creativity to make greetings that feel... VLA Stem: right to you and your guests. :) VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Other things you can do to make your... VLA Stem: chat interesting, warm and inviting are parallel... VLA Stem: to real life situations. VLA Stem: - Inquire after someone's day. VLA Stem: (How are you? Did you have a good weekend?) VLA Stem: - Make them feel welcome. VLA Stem: (::pulling up a chair for Member123::) VLA Stem: - Make yourself accessible and open. VLA Stem: (If anyone has any questions, I'd be happy... VLA Stem: to help you!) VLA Stem: - Welcome them back when they return VLA Stem: (Welcome back, Member123! Nice to see you again.) VLA Stem: - Bid them farewell and thank them for coming. VLA Stem: (Bye, Member123! Thanks for stopping by!) VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Most of these are common sense, and you will... VLA Stem: develop your own style as you host. :D VLA Stem: Just be careful not to crowd out the other members... VLA Stem: with your chat -- give them a chance to join in too! VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: That's about it for greetings! Any questions? >ga DisneyDeer: >ga CosmoSplat: >ga WB Alice: >ga IT Bryan: >ga OLPDebbie: >ga OGFGryphon: >ga ITGregH: >ga VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Well, it's time for our break. VLA Stem: Meet back here at... VLA Stem: VLA Scot on the AOL clock! >ga VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: er....macro backfire??? :D CosmoSplat: <--- setting AOL clock for VLA Scot. ;) VLA Stem: Let's meet back here at 8:38 on the AOL clock :D VLA Scot: I used to be there but something kept running past me and making me Dizzy... <g> OGFGryphon: Scot is a time? How cosmic! VLA Stem: <---frightening myself :D VLA Stem: So, are any of you going to the Community Day this weekend in VA? CosmoSplat: I'd like to, but have games to host. :( WB Alice: Not me...to far away wish I could though IT Bryan: No, I can't I have real world responsibilities, and an article to write. VLA Stem: Bummer Cosmo. :( WB Alice: afk VLA Scot: I am... I am... I am... I am.... ;-D VLA Stem: me too...me too...me too...me too.. ;D CosmoSplat: You both sound very excited -- I hope you have fun! :) VLA Scot: That's too Bad folks maybe next time we can meet in person... :-) DVealArt: Whew, okay I'm back I have my pallette and let;'s begin class, shall we..:> (Thanks Scot) OGFGryphon: Sorry...sorry...sorry! Prior commitments and distance forbid. WB Alice: bak OLPDebbie: No. To far for me! Shame I don't need to go to my DC office this week. VLA Scot: Sure... Art... its Break time... :-) VLA Scot: Grphyon..... it might be in SanFrancisco... in January DVealArt: OH:< ga VLA Stem: Awwww Bummer y'all!!! I would have loved to have met you this weekend!!! CosmoSplat: <--- came to class fully read-up and with palette (going for brownie points). ;) OLPDebbie: Is it ever in Atlanta? OGFGryphon: That would be nice, but is even farther. When y'all hold it in OGFGryphon: Orlando, I'll be there! VLA Stem: :::putting a lavendar star on CosmoSplat::: :D CosmoSplat: Cool -- I love purply stuff. :) VLA Stem: Debbie...it was in Atlanta last February...I was even there!!! :D OLPDebbie: I know. I found out about it about two weeks after you were here. It was at Lenox Mall, OLPDebbie: wasnt' it? CosmoSplat: The AOLympics? ;) VLA Scot: LOL.... Cosmo....Allways better that way if you can. That way class reinforces the VLA Scot: lesson not just teaches... :-) VLA Stem: LOL!! VLA Stem: Ummm...it was at the Hilton downtown. OLPDebbie: Oh. Right by my office! VLA Stem: Maybe they'll have it in Atlanta again this year!!! VLA Scot: I was in Orlando last month Grphyon... :-) CosmoSplat: Right, Scot. I do trivia games and have learned preparation is perhaps *the* most CosmoSplat: important part of hosting. VLA Stem: <--would drive back down to Atlanta again. OLPDebbie: It's a great place. At least I think so! OGFGryphon: ::sigh:: I never know about these things until too late. Story of my life. VLA Scot: Especially for that kind of chat.... Cosmo....that will keep you on your toes... <g> CosmoSplat: Indeed! :) CosmoSplat: What part of Atlanta, Debbie? (hubby grew up near Athens) VLA Stem: Gryphon...you can get on the Leaders List and find out about them sooner ;) OGFGryphon: Understand. Atlanta would be fun. My mom lives in Alpharetta, just outside the OGFGryphon: perimeter. OLPDebbie: NE. Out towards Snellville, if you know where that is. .. You know -- Snellville ..Where .. OLPDebbie: everyone is Someone! CosmoSplat: lol! Yep, I remember Snellville. OLPDebbie: Used to work out in Alpharetta. VLA Scot: Now since we still have a few minutes.... I would like to encourage any of you that VLA Scot: are interested to take or Rainman couses... :-) CosmoSplat: Have a Varsity chili dog and some onion rings for me! (If you're into that). :) OLPDebbie: Loooong drive. OLPDebbie: I was at the OLPDebbie: Varsity last week. CosmoSplat: <-- very interested in Rainman courses, would like to do some online graphics CosmoSplat: stuff. :) VLA Stem: <---stayed at the Marriot near the Varisity once :) OLPDebbie: YUMMY! Love them chili dogs, but not those 'rings. OGFGryphon: I would be delighted, Scot, but I need to get used to working a OGFGryphon: hosting shift first. :-) DVealArt: Online graphics? Cool:> CosmoSplat: The rings are kinda greasy, but I love 'em. ;) VLA Scot: Just when you have a chance after getting settled... Grphyon....we will be here... VLA Scot: :-) VLA Stem: CosmoSplat...Scot is one of our great trainers in RM. He's *wonderful* :D OLPDebbie: I don't like onions. But I love their greasy fries. CosmoSplat: And the Frosted Orange -- ooooh, just like a liquid Push-Up sherbet thingy. :P OLPDebbie: I'd rather have a fried peach pie! CosmoSplat: Great, Stem! I'd really love to do that. :) CosmoSplat: Mmmm... <drool> VLA Stem: Scot <----the man :D OLPDebbie: This sure sounds better than my frosted flakes! VLA Scot: Cosmo... we teach you how to put up graphics online too... :-) VLA Scot: Thanx.... Stem... :-) VLA Stem: Speaking of pie...I baked the most stupendous apple pie last weekend!! Y'all would OGFGryphon: Next time I'm in Atlanta, it sounds like I need to go to the Varsity. I OGFGryphon: LOVE chili dogs! DVealArt: Scot, that would help me alot as I am CosmoSplat: I'd sure enjoy that -- I always wanted to play with the graphics in the CosmoSplat: Trivia Forum to see what I could come up with. DVealArt: teaching cartooning online:> OLPDebbie: YUM! Fried peach pie, slightly warm, with vanilla ice cream! WOW! CosmoSplat: Gryphon, absolutely put it on your list -- the best chili dogs in the CosmoSplat: world (imho). :) VLA Stem: <cough> VLA Stem: Welcome back from break!! :) VLA Stem: Just to make sure everyone is with us, can you... VLA Stem: type ">ga" if you are here? OLPDebbie: >ga OGFGryphon: >ga WB Alice: >ga CosmoSplat: >ga ITGregH: >ga DVealArt: >ga DisneyDeer: ::Trying to get fire started::>ga VLA Scot: Cool.... DV....that sounds like fun....::: shushing now..::: IT Bryan: >ga VLA Stem: I think we should all go over to Disney's place and help her with the VLA Stem: fire....what do ya say?? VLA Stem: :D DVealArt: :D DisneyDeer: Its in the puter room too! Cozy ::shushing now too::: CosmoSplat: toasty! :) OLPDebbie: If I was downstairs, I'd be lighting me a fire tonight too. WB Alice: LOL OGFGryphon: Having helped burn down a friends back yard accidentally, I think I'll stay here. VLA Stem: <--jealous of all of y'all with fireplaces :D ITGregH: <--me too! VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Now, let's talk about macros. :) VLA Stem: First of all, how many of you have used... OLPDebbie: Even got my big stack of wood, just waiting to be burned. VLA Stem: macro programs online before? VLA Stem: (just raise your hand) >ga DisneyDeer: >ga WB Alice: ! CosmoSplat: <-- me! >ga OLPDebbie: not me >ga WB Alice: >ga OGFGryphon: A little >ga DisneyDeer: i have i mean>ga VLA Stem: Great! DVealArt: no>ga ITGregH: not me! >ga IT Bryan: no, >ga VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Macros are very useful when hosting a room. VLA Stem: They are primarily helpful in greeting guests... VLA Stem: and announcing the topic. VLA Stem: Let's go over the use of macro programs a bit first. VLA Stem: There are some excellent macro programs for those... VLA Stem: of you on WAOL and MAOL. VLA Stem: GAOL (AOL for DOS) cannot use traditional macros. :/ VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: For Windows, I'm familiar with a few programs: VLA Stem: - GHostTools VLA Stem: - SwiftKeys VLA Stem: - CRoom with CWelcome VLA Stem: - PowerTools VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: SwiftKeys or GHostTools are freeware... VLA Stem: utilities and easy to learn. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: I use PowerTools which has a lot of extra... VLA Stem: features. Some hosts report a steep learning... VLA Stem: curve, but it is really helpful in a lot of ways... VLA Stem: and definitely worth taking a look at. :) VLA Stem: I like it a LOT! <g> VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: On the Mac, there is a commercial program... VLA Stem: called "QuicKeys" which Jennifer has been... OLPDebbie: ! VLA Stem: using for over two years. VLA Stem: There is also a shareware Mac program called... VLA Scot: ( PT user too...:-) VLA Stem: "TypeIt4Me" which is what she used to use for... VLA Stem: the training classes. Now she uses a utility called... VLA Stem: "gPaste" which isn't a macro program at all. VLA Stem: Rather, it allows her to paste more than one line... VLA Stem: at a time. She prefers this for training as she can... VLA Stem: then work from a simple text document and update... VLA Stem: it as she goes, if needed. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Both "TypeIt4Me" and "gPaste" were included in... VLA Stem: your Required Reading for this class. VLA Stem: For hosting, she recommends "TypeIt4Me" or "QuicKeys." VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Please experiment with these different types... VLA Stem: of programs to find one you are comfortable with. VLA Stem: All of these are in your Required Reading area. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Are there any questions on macros or macro programs? >ga DisneyDeer: >ga WB Alice: >ga VLA Stem: Debbie? CosmoSplat: ! OGFGryphon: >ga IT Bryan: >ga DVealArt: >ga ITGregH: >ga OLPDebbie: I downloaded Power Tools, but I have had a hard time getting it to work. OLPDebbie: But I'm still trying. OLPDebbie: >ga ITGregH: OLP, I never got it figured out. >ga VLA Stem: Debbie, if you e-mail me after class, I can try to help you. Or you can track VLA Stem: me down online and IM me when you've got it sorta running. I'm always VLA Stem: available to ALL of you via email or IMs. :) VLA Stem: Cosmo? CosmoSplat: Two of us in our forum even started a PowerTools folder... OLPDebbie: ok. Thanks. >ga CosmoSplat: in our forum, since the program does different things for different type hosts. CosmoSplat: There are a lot of features specific for different hosting jobs, CosmoSplat: and it helps us to share ideas and such. :) >ga OLPDebbie: One of the other hosts of my chat loves it, but she has a MAC and I don't know if it OLPDebbie: is different.. OLPDebbie: >ga IT Bryan: ? VLA Stem: Absolutely Cosmo! I find PowerTools much more useful now that I have large... VLA Stem: blocks of text to send out. It changes within the realm of what you need to do :) CosmoSplat: :) CosmoSplat: >ga VLA Stem: Debbie...there isn't a PowerTools for MAC, so your host-friend is probably using a VLA Stem: different program...possibly :) VLA Stem: Bryan? IT Bryan: Never, mind, a question about Power tools for Mac,. OLPDebbie: Oh. I'll have to check. I thought she said Power Tools. OLPDebbie: Thanks. >ga VLA Stem: Sure! VLA Stem: Any other questions? CosmoSplat: You can use PowerTools on a Mac with a Windows-emulating program WB Alice: >ga CosmoSplat: (sorry) >ga OGFGryphon: >ga DisneyDeer: .ga ITGregH: >ga IT Bryan: >ga VLA Stem: That's fine Cosmo! Thanks for that information! :) OLPDebbie: >ga DVealArt: >ga VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Besides macros, you will want to use your... VLA Stem: Hosting Palette. A starter palette was provided... VLA Stem: in your Required Reading. I'm going to refer to... VLA Stem: this palette as we go through the next section. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: You'll actually need to copy and paste from... VLA Stem: it for some exercises we'll do, so I'd like... VLA Stem: everyone to bring the palette up on their... VLA Stem: screen and position it so both this room... VLA Stem: and the palette are visible. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Once you've done that, please type ">ga." WB Alice: >Ga CosmoSplat: >ga OGFGryphon: >ga DisneyDeer: >ga OLPDebbie: >ga ITGregH: >ga IT Bryan: .ga DVealArt: >ga VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: The Hosting Palette should be brought up... VLA Stem: each time before you enter your chat room... VLA Stem: and positioned so it's always in view. VLA Stem: The one in your Required Reading is *very* generic... VLA Stem: and not even complete. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: It is your responsibility to tailor the palette... VLA Stem: to your needs and style and to update it with... VLA Stem: new text as it becomes necessary. VLA Stem: As for technique, you will need to understand how... VLA Stem: to copy and paste (and how to explain it, too). VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Speaking of which, what is the keyboard shortcut... VLA Stem: for pasting text? (just *shout* it out if you know!) VLA Stem: >ga CosmoSplat: Ctrl+V (PC) OGFGryphon: Ctrl+V >ga VLA Scot: I know but I won't tell IT Bryan: Command V for mac! WB Alice: Cntr+V VLA Stem: LOL Scot! ITGregH: I can't answer...the palette hides. <g> VLA Stem: Excellent!!! Both platforms too!!! VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Because it is important that you know how to do... VLA Stem: this not only to use your palette, but also to... VLA Stem: function well online, let's do a quick exercise! VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Let's pretend that VLA Scot has been troublesome... VLA Stem: <wink> and you want to ask them to calm down a bit. VLA Stem: Find an appropriate line on your palette... VLA Stem: and paste it to the room now. >ga DisneyDeer: VLA Scot, d'ya think you could tone it down a bit? You're disturbing the room. Thanks! :) CosmoSplat: VLA Scott, d'ya think you could tone it down a bit? You're disturbing the room. CosmoSplat: Thanks! :) DVealArt: Member1234, stop harassing others. It violates our Terms of Service. See Keyword: TOS. OLPDebbie: Member1234, d'ya think you could tone it down a bit? You're disturbing the room. Thanks! :) IT Bryan: Member1234, d'ya think you could tone it down a bit? You're disturbing the room. Thanks! :) OGFGryphon: VLA Scot, d'ya think you could tone it down a bit? You're disturbing the room. Thanks! :) DVealArt: Thanks:> WB Alice: VLA Scot, d'ya think you could tone it down a bit? You're disturbing the WB Alice: thanks ITGregH: Member1234, please remember that this is a family-oriented service. :) WB Alice: LOL it got cut ;-) VLA Scot: ::: hasn't been scolded like that since I was 10::::: <g> ITGregH: oops, .]>ga VLA Stem: Great job folks!!! Just remember that you want to direct that to VLA Scot, and not VLA Stem: Member1234 :D OGFGryphon: That'll teach you not to give us the answer, Scot! VLA Stem: LOL Gryphon!!! VLA Scot: LOL... Grphyon... :-) ITGregH: Sorry, I thought that Scot WAS Member 1234. VLA Stem: Great! :D VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Now, macros/palettes are very useful and make... VLA Stem: hosting more enjoyable and smoother because you... VLA Stem: aren't wasting valuable time trying to remember... VLA Stem: the wording to something, or stumbling over your... VLA Stem: fingers typing something over and over. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: However, there are still some guidelines you... VLA Stem: should keep in mind while using macros: VLA Stem: - Make them short and sweet. They should be... VLA Stem: intact in as few lines as possible. VLA Stem: - Double-check spelling and grammar. VLA Stem: There is no excuse for repeating a mistake... VLA Stem: over and over in a macro. VLA Stem: - For frequently-used lines (i.e., more than... VLA Stem: twice during one session), create alternate... VLA Stem: forms so you can vary them and keep them... VLA Stem: from sounding canned and insincere. VLA Stem: - Try to take lines from actual chat whenever... VLA Stem: possible so they will sound more natural! VLA Stem: You don't want to be mistaken for a computer... VLA Stem: (which happens more than you might realize). :/ VLA Stem: - Learn how to copy and paste quickly from... VLA Stem: your palette. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: That's about it for macros! Any questions? >ga WB Alice: >ga OGFGryphon: >ga ITGregH: >ga DisneyDeer: ? CosmoSplat: >ga OLPDebbie: >ga DVealArt: >ga IT Bryan: >ga VLA Stem: Disney? DisneyDeer: Would you use macro programs and pallattes? Seems redundant DisneyDeer: >ga CosmoSplat: ! VLA Stem: It is!!! We're teaching you how to use a palette for those folks who don't have the VLA Stem: room or the money for a macro program. Besides, you should always know how to VLA Stem: do things manually :) VLA Stem: Cosmo? CosmoSplat: This may be redundant, but everyone should also check with his/her forum leaders... DisneyDeer: OK, just makin sure...>ga CosmoSplat: to find out the particular TOS application in the chat rooms, CosmoSplat: since they're different for each one. >ga VLA Scot: ( I use palettes for a back up, the tools don't always work with the changes on VLA Scot: AOL... :-) IT Bryan: ? OGFGryphon: ! VLA Stem: Excellent point Cosmo! Each forum *is* different and what we are telling VLA Stem: you is just an overview. Please check with your forums on specific VLA Stem: policies :) VLA Stem: Gryphon? Your comment? OGFGryphon: Palettes would be more convenient than macros for special events where you don't OGFGryphon: want to take the time to program a series of macros. OGFGryphon: >ga VLA Stem: Another good point!! DisneyDeer: Good point..>ga VLA Stem: Bryan? You had a question? IT Bryan: Suggestions on where to get a good Macro program, cost is not really a problem. VLA Stem: Search the Software Libraries...look for add-ons. If you're on a PC, you'll VLA Stem: want to hop right over to Keyword: BPS SOFTWARE to get PowerTools :) VLA Stem: They have their own forum here on AOL. IT Bryan: Sorry, I have a Mac. VLA Stem: You can still go to the software libraries, and there are copies of macro VLA Stem: programs in the VLA's library. Check out the Toolbox under our Library VLA Stem: area. :) VLA Scot: ( some of the programs are available in the tool box in Virtual Files and Libraries VLA Scot: on the main VLA page ..;-) VLA Stem: LOL Scot :) VLA Scot: Opps.... Stem beat me to it... :-) VLA Stem: Hey there Mik!! Glad you could join us!!! Mik540: Whew...didn't think I was going to get ere tonight. VLA Stem: Bryan, check out Keyword: VLA > VirtuaLibraries > The Toolbox. IT Bryan: Ok, thanks! VLA Stem: Any other questions before we move on? DisneyDeer: >ga OGFGryphon: >ga WB Alice: >ga IT Bryan: no, >ga CosmoSplat: >ga OLPDebbie: >ga Mik540: >ga ITGregH: >ga VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: There are several more subtle techniques for... VLA Stem: keeping your chat on course, your room interesting... VLA Stem: and enjoyable, and your turnover rate low! VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: I hope you've all read the section in the manual... VLA Stem: titled "Hosting Tips and Techniques" carefully! VLA Stem: There are lots of great tips in there :D VLA Stem: I won't go over all of them, but I'll elaborate... VLA Stem: on some of the more important ones. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: ***Room Control*** VLA Stem: As the host, you need to keep control of your room. VLA Stem: This doesn't mean you should host with a heavy hand. VLA Stem: Rather, you will need to gently guide the room away VLA Stem: from potentially dangerous (TOSsable) topics and... VLA Stem: keep your topic from falling by the wayside. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: For times when you encounter challenging... VLA Stem: situations in chat, there are actually quite a few VLA Stem: techniques you can use, and I'll share a few of... VLA Stem: them with you. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Some tips: VLA Stem: - The Cough. In situations where the chat seems... VLA Stem: to be heading for trouble make your presence... VLA Stem: known by saying ":::ahem:::" or "Well, looks... VLA Stem: like you are all fiesty tonight ;)" VLA Stem: Be an active presence onscreen steering the... VLA Stem: chat away from the borderline whenever you can. VLA Stem: - A wink and a smile. A ;) goes a long way to... VLA Stem: making members settle before they get out of hand. VLA Stem: When you call attention to something that may be VLA Stem: getting close to borderline, don't just censor... VLA Stem: the person. Appeal to their sense of being a... VLA Stem: part of it all. VLA Stem: - Use humor appropriately. In most situations... VLA Stem: you can use humor to turn the chat to a... VLA Stem: different, safer direction. But be careful... VLA Stem: never to appear to be a smart alec. VLA Stem: Do keep your sense of humor no matter how... VLA Stem: annoying the situation. Kidding folks and... VLA Stem: including them *in* the joke can keep them... VLA Stem: involved and buying in to the chat as opposed... VLA Stem: to violating TOS. If anything, making yourself... VLA Stem: the brunt of a joke can make a difference. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: To employ these techniques or any others,... VLA Stem: you will need to keep a *very* careful eye on the... VLA Stem: chat and the path it takes as it progresses. VLA Stem: Be wary of controlling your room too rigidly,... VLA Stem: however -- remember, we are here for the *guests*,... VLA Stem: not vice versa. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Try to accommodate their needs as much as possible. VLA Stem: If someone tries to introduce a new and different... VLA Stem: topic in a special-topic chat, tell them that it... VLA Stem: sounds like it has interesting prospects for... VLA Stem: another chat, suggest they e-mail you about it and... VLA Stem: then return enthusiastically to the current topic. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: You can make them feel good about their input,... VLA Stem: without having your topic swept out from under you... VLA Stem: or sweeping them under the rug! VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Are there any questions? >ga IT Bryan: ! DisneyDeer: >ga WB Alice: >ga VLA Stem: Bryan? OGFGryphon: >ga OLPDebbie: >ga CosmoSplat: >ga IT Bryan: My wife, the psychologist, says this all sounds like her group sessions!<G> ITGregH: >ga DVealArt: >ga VLA Stem: LOL Bryan! It's probably very similar :D CosmoSplat: (but we get paid back for these) <g> >ga IT Bryan: She uses the phrase "on task" Mik540: >ga ITGregH: >ga VLA Stem: Any other comments or questions? OGFGryphon: >ga IT Bryan: >ga CosmoSplat: >ga DisneyDeer: >ga OLPDebbie: >ga DVealArt: >ga WB Alice: >ga Mik540: >ga VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: ***New Members*** VLA Stem: As a host, you will probably come across a... VLA Stem: number of new members in your chats. VLA Stem: If I sense someone is new, I will often ask if... VLA Stem: they are and then suggest things they might find... VLA Stem: helpful. These keywords are good to pass on: VLA Stem: - Keyword: SHORTHANDS VLA Stem: - Keyword: DISCOVER VLA Stem: - Keyword: HELP VLA Stem: There is even a forum just for new members called... VLA Stem: Orientation Express (keyword: NEW MEMBER). VLA Stem: New members will find it on their welcome screens... VLA Stem: during their first 90 days. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Also, be sure *you* know how to create/delete... VLA Stem: screen names, make a profile, check your bill,... VLA Stem: change your preferences and check the clock... VLA Stem: so you can explain this should it come up. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: You may also need to explain how to ignore chat... VLA Stem: and turn off IMs. Just to be sure everyone is... VLA Stem: clear on how to turn off IMs, I'd like you all to... VLA Stem: do this now. When your IMs are off, please type... VLA Stem: ">ga" to the room. :) >ga CosmoSplat: >ga WB Alice: $im_off send IM to DisneyDeer: >ga OGFGryphon: >ga IT Bryan: >ga DVealArt: <ga WB Alice: >GA Mik540: >ga VLA Stem: So...since y'all did that so quickly...can anyone tell me how to turn my VLA Stem: IMs back on? :) OLPDebbie: ?..... Help! >ga CosmoSplat: send an IM to $im_on :) DisneyDeer: $im_on VLA Stem: OOoooo Folks...can anyone help Debbie get her IMs turned off? OGFGryphon: Send an IM to "$IM_ON" with anything in the text box. CosmoSplat: Debbie, send an IM to $im_off and put a letter in the IM, then hit "send" ITGregH: Sorry, I can't figure out how to do it. VLA Stem: Greg...check out what Cosmo said :) DVealArt: Under Members go to send instant message and OLPDebbie: got it. Thanks. >ga DisneyDeer: To ignore IM's: Open an IM from the member menu an type $IM_off in the TO box. DVealArt: turn it on or something. DVealArt: >ga VLA Stem: Great job folks!!! Y'all can turn your IMs back on now :D WB Alice: >ga ITGregH: Sorry, I have *no* idea.. WB Alice: ! VLA Stem: Alice? OGFGryphon: >ga OLPDebbie: >ga CosmoSplat: >ga WB Alice: Powertools also has an auto greeter that is great ;-) WB Alice: >ga DVealArt: >ga DisneyDeer: Who's gonna help Greg? >ga WB Alice: auto answer I ment....LOL >ga IT Bryan: I have Greg! VLA Stem: Yes Alice...it is great! Though I always feel guilty using it, and quite VLA Stem: frankly, when I'm telling a new member how to ignore someone who's VLA Stem: harrassing them, I rarely think that they have PowerTools (though I'd VLA Stem: love to tell them to go download it!) WB Alice: :-) VLA Stem: Bryan!!! You're too good! Scot is helping him as well :) IT Bryan: I haveIMed greg, since he hasn't turned them off <G> DVealArt: ? IT Bryan: I work,with the little knuckle head, no one knows him like me<G> or wants too. <G> VLA Stem: DVeal? DVealArt: How is everyone VLA Stem: ROFL Bryan! DVealArt: placing all this info on the scree?>ga DVealArt: screen? DVealArt: <ga VLA Stem: What info is that DVeal? DVealArt: I have three window open and with a Macro DVealArt: I'll have four! :< <ga VLA Stem: The Hosting Palette can be in the background...and you can always close those other VLA Stem: widows! :) OGFGryphon: DVeal, I have my windows cascaded. I click on the one I need and go from there. :) VLA Stem: Do any of you have any other suggestions for DVeal? DisneyDeer: I just minimize everything...Win 95 is great with multi-tasking...>ga WB Alice: I have split the screen with both windows ;-) WB Alice: >ga CosmoSplat: I always keep the chat window large, with the title bars of the other windows in CosmoSplat: sight above the chat window for easy access. :) CosmoSplat: >ga VLA Stem: Excellent suggestions folks!!!!! :::uploading magenta stars for y'all::: VLA Scot: Ohhh... I like Magenta Stars.... :) DVealArt: So I do not have to keep the IM up. DisneyDeer: NO! You can close it!! :) VLA Stem: No DVeal...you can cascade it with the other windows, close it or put it in the VLA Stem: background! DVealArt: Thanks <ga VLA Stem: We're going to continue on now ;) OGFGryphon: I keep it in the cascade and love the multiple tabs PowerTools give me for IMs. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Remember, always emphasize to your new guests that... VLA Stem: they are welcome in our chats and you are... VLA Stem: available to answer any questions or direct... VLA Stem: them to someone who can help. VLA Stem: Try not to let the "newbie" feeling set in. VLA Stem: Just because they are new that doesn't mean that... VLA Stem: they aren't valuable members of our community! VLA Stem: We were all new once. :D VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: ***Lurkers*** VLA Stem: Lurkers are members who will come into a chat room... VLA Stem: but rarely will they participate in a discussion. VLA Stem: Sometimes they are new, sometimes they just want... VLA Stem: to listen, and other times they came into the chat... VLA Stem: but then saw something else that caught their... VLA Stem: interest and they forgot to leave. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Greeting them when they first enter will sometimes... VLA Stem: draw them out. If you are worried that someone... VLA Stem: feels lost or left out, you can IM them to let... VLA Stem: them know they are welcome in the discussion and... VLA Stem: you are here if they have any questions. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: But don't pester them if they aren't interested. VLA Stem: Some people *like* to lurk or just listen quietly. VLA Stem: Think of them as a captive audience. ;) VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: ***SNERTS*** VLA Stem: Snerts, as some of you may know, are those members... VLA Stem: who gleefully disregard TOS, disrupt rooms,... VLA Stem: members and make life unpleasant for us poor staff. VLA Stem: Snert is an acronym for... does anyone here know? ;> VLA Stem: (yell it out if you know!) >ga CosmoSplat: {S snert CosmoSplat: ;) OGFGryphon: Sexually naive, Emotionally Retarted Teenager! >ga CosmoSplat: sexually nerdish something something something. ;) VLA Stem: LOL!!! Close y'all!!! :D DisneyDeer: {S asnert VLA Stem: SNERT = Sexually Nerdishly Expressive Recidivistic Trolls :D WB Alice: LOL...PITA....>ga CosmoSplat: lol Stem -- none of whom know what "recidivistic" mean. ;) VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: The best thing you can do is watch them carefully,... VLA Stem: *try* to change a topic on them (if it's getting... VLA Stem: dangerous) and distract them from their highway... VLA Stem: to destruction!! VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: One way to do this is to barrage them with... VLA Stem: questions of a topic-related nature, i.e.... VLA Stem: "What in particular convinces you that UFOs are... VLA Stem: an impossibility, Member1234?" or... VLA Stem: "What's your position on 'hard' science fiction,... VLA Stem: Member1234?" VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: If that doesn't work, you will need to issue TOS... VLA Stem: warnings if they are warranted. VLA Stem: (You can learn more about TOS in the Community VLA Stem: Leader's College class on TOS.) VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: People in the room will often be disturbed by... VLA Stem: TOS warnings and it will be your duty to get the... VLA Stem: room back on track as soon as possible! VLA Stem: Don't let members dwell on them, and remind them... VLA Stem: of the ignore button if you are having problems. VLA Stem: Or if people seem bent on remaining upset about... VLA Stem: someone suggest they they report it to TOS. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Does everyone know where *any* member can... VLA Stem: report TOS violations? (tell me where) >ga CosmoSplat: keyword: guidepager CosmoSplat: >ga DisneyDeer: Keyword: GuidePager WB Alice: TOStaff1 OGFGryphon: Keyword: Guidepager or Keyword: TOS WB Alice: guide page sorry IT Bryan: For hosts, keyword GP. WB Alice: >ga VLA Stem: Excellent folks!! I usually refer folks to Keyword: GUIDEPAGER or TOS VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: ***Patience and Level-headedness*** VLA Stem: This is a very important trait to acquire as a host! VLA Stem: There *will* be times when your patience is tried,... VLA Stem: by either snerts or people who like to have a... VLA Stem: good argument and you will feel very unappreciated... VLA Stem: for all your hard work! VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: This happens to the best of us -- and it will pass. VLA Stem: But it is important *not* to lose your temper! VLA Stem: I'm lucky in that I'm normally a fairly patient... VLA Stem: person so I've been able to observe the difference... VLA Stem: it makes! VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: There was one host I knew when I first started... VLA Stem: hosting who was excellent, but he let snerts get... VLA Stem: to him personally. He couldn't let it glide over him. VLA Stem: For example, when the tenth person of the evening... VLA Stem: had said "Hey, what's the topic?" he tended to get... VLA Stem: a little short with them. I probably don't need to... VLA Stem: tell you that his turnover rate was high. :/ VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: You need to "smile from the wrists down" as a host. VLA Stem: This can be hard for some people to do at first... VLA Stem: and it may take time to master. VLA Stem: Never take anything personally in chat. VLA Stem: You are the one people focus on most often... VLA Stem: in a chat, so it is to be expected that some... VLA Stem: aggression may fall upon you. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: ***Troubled or Sick Members*** VLA Stem: If, while hosting, an emotionally-troubled member... VLA Stem: enters your room please do *not* offer this person... VLA Stem: online 'counseling' or 'help.' Refer them... VLA Stem: (via Instant Message) to their local crisis... VLA Stem: hotline (in their phone book towards the front)... VLA Stem: or to their local police. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: This *sounds* cold and heartless, but there are... VLA Stem: reasons for it. It is impossible to tell just... VLA Stem: what mental state someone is in while you're online. VLA Stem: The same is true for those members who say they... VLA Stem: are in need of medical attention (injured/sick). VLA Stem: Refer them to their nearest local hospital, or 911. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: ***Have Fun!*** VLA Stem: The best hosts are the ones who *enjoy* what they... VLA Stem: are doing because their enthusiasm and enjoyment... VLA Stem: shows through and spreads like wildfire! VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: In the beginning, it is normal to be nervous... VLA Stem: but try to relax and get into what you're doing! VLA Stem: Sometimes it helps a lot to have friends join you... VLA Stem: in the room while you are a new host. VLA Stem: Just be sure to include all the other guests in... VLA Stem: your fun! :D VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Remember though, that everything has its place... VLA Stem: and it may not be appropriate to have a food fight VLA Stem: in the middle of a serious discussion. VLA Stem: Hugs {} (but no more than three at once) can be... VLA Stem: used when appropriate, too. Hugs have the... VLA Stem: unfortunate side effect of making members who... VLA Stem: are *not* hugged feel left out, so please use... VLA Stem: these with care. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Be sensitive and use your good professional judgment. :D VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: ***Host Precepts*** VLA Stem: These are some common goals we should all keep... VLA Stem: in our minds and strive for while we fine tune... VLA Stem: our hosting techniques: VLA Stem: - Your currency is human attention. Work with it. VLA Stem: Discourage abuse of it. VLA Stem: - Welcome newcomers. Help them find their place. VLA Stem: - Use a light touch. Don't be authoritarian. VLA Stem: - Strive to influence and persuade, but never VLA Stem: to overpower. VLA Stem: - Affirm people! Encourage them to open up. VLA Stem: Point out the good about them. VLA Stem: - Show by example. VLA Stem: - Have a big fuse. Never let the bottom drop out. VLA Stem: - Don't give in to tyranny by individual or group. VLA Stem: - Help it be "female-friendly." Some women feel... VLA Stem: unwelcomed by the barrage of IMs they often... VLA Stem: get from men. Let them know they *are* welcome... VLA Stem: here and that they can ignore those IMs. VLA Stem: - It isn't just you: let the people help shape it. VLA Stem: - Be part of the community. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Are there any questions on general techniques? >ga WB Alice: >ga DisneyDeer: >ga OGFGryphon: >ga IT Bryan: >ga OLPDebbie: >ga CosmoSplat: >ga ITGregH: >ga VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Our last topics tonight are logging and chat reports. VLA Scot: ( never met General technique ) VLA Stem: The documents on each of these explain most... VLA Stem: everything you need to know to complete these. DVealArt: >ga VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Everyone is logging our class tonight, so I... VLA Stem: you know how to do this. If not, we'll find out. :) VLA Stem: Please follow the procedures in the document... VLA Stem: titled "Chat Logs" when you do the logs... VLA Stem: from your chats. And check your area's guidelines... VLA Stem: for any additional instructions. :) VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Does anyone have any questions on logging your chat? >ga DisneyDeer: ? OLPDebbie: >ga OGFGryphon: >ga VLA Stem: Disney? WB Alice: >ga IT Bryan: >ga CosmoSplat: misfire on that macro? >ga DisneyDeer: Whats the difference between chat log and session log? DVealArt: <ga ITGregH: >ga VLA Stem: No misfire. DisneyDeer: >ga CosmoSplat: sorry, looked like something should've been between the first & second lines VLA Stem: Chat log saves the chat within a room. A session log will record both IMs CosmoSplat: (sorry) :) VLA Stem: and things lke message boards & places you go online. :) DisneyDeer: Ah, thank you...>ga VLA Stem: Just checked it Cosmo...nope. It's correct! Referring to the Required VLA Stem: Reading on the logs :) CosmoSplat: Thanks! :) >ga VLA Stem: For you??? Anything :D WB Alice: LOL VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Reports are important for keeping good records... VLA Stem: and letting your supervisor know how your chat went. VLA Stem: Again, instructions for chat reports are given... VLA Stem: in the "Chat Logs" document. Your first few... VLA Stem: reports will probably have a few mistakes, and... VLA Stem: hopefully your supervisor will point these out... VLA Stem: so you can correct them in subsequent reports. VLA Stem: Don't let this worry you -- it is all a part of... VLA Stem: learning. :) VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: You'll actually have a chance to practice doing... VLA Stem: a chat report -- it will be your assignment for... VLA Stem: the last session of this course! VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Does anyone have any questions on chat reports? >ga OGFGryphon: >ga WB Alice: >ga DisneyDeer: >ga IT Bryan: >ga OLPDebbie: >ga CosmoSplat: >ga DVealArt: >ga Mik540: Did anyone else just get nuked? VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Your assignment before our next class is to... VLA Stem: prepare and upload the log of this class! VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: You should pretend that it was an actual chat... VLA Stem: on Hosting Techniques. You will need to upload... VLA Stem: it to the VLA File Library, which is at path... VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: VLA > VirtuaLearning Hub > VirtuaLab > File Library. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: These should be uploaded according to the... VLA Stem: guidelines in "Chat Logs" at least 24 hours before... VLA Stem: your next scheduled class -- I'll be checking... VLA Stem: each one and sending you comments. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Be sure to send email to VLA Stem and CC:... VLA Stem: VLA Scot *and* VLA Tree when you have are finished with the... VLA Stem: upload. VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Are there any questions on this assignment? >ga OGFGryphon: >ga OLPDebbie: >ga WB Alice: >ga DVealArt: >ga CosmoSplat: >ga DisneyDeer: >ga IT Bryan: >ga VLA Stem: {({(Mike})}) :::uploading anti-nuke punt pillows:::: ITGregH: >ga VLA Stem: Our Cadet of the Day, for outstanding persistance & just for giving it his VLA Stem: best shot is... Mik540: Man...I got FRIED...knocked offline and was rebooted in Safe Mode in 95! VLA Stem: ITGregH!!!!! ::uploading gold & silver stars::: IT Bryan: :::::::::ROAR of Crowd::::::::::::: YEAH GREG!!!!!!!!! CosmoSplat: Yay Greg! WB Alice: LOL Yeah!!! DisneyDeer: And For being On-Time! :) ITGregH: Merci..! DVealArt: I want to be like Greg;> VLA Stem: Absolutely!!!! ITGregH: Veally? OGFGryphon: Yay, Greg. Never say die!!! VLA Stem: Woo Hooo!!!!! OLPDebbie: Yea, Greg! ITGregH: Merci, gracias, thanks. DVealArt: Veally:> ITGregH: LOL VLA Stem: LOL!!! DVealArt: This is killing me. What is LOL? WB Alice: Laughing out loud CosmoSplat: lol = laughing out loud. :) DVealArt: Why not!!! :> WB Alice: ROFL= rolling on floor laughing VLA Stem: Little Old Ladies :D CosmoSplat: DVeal, there's a list of all of those at keyword: shorthand DisneyDeer: Lobsters OnLine VLA Stem: : VLA Stem: Thanks again for a great class, folks! <End Log>