See also: Frequently Asked Questions | Privacy
General Posting Guidelines
We figured this was necessary because a lot of people come in and post threads without thinking, and without realizing that there is no possible way they could get help because of the way they posted the question. Here are some general guidelines.
1. Please use SEARCH for what you are looking for first!
There is a pretty good chance that unless you have some really odd or unique problem that it has been addressed on our forum before, please use the forum’s search feature first to see if there are already some good threads on the subject. It’s easy to search – just use the “Search” feature at the top of the page.
2. Be DESCRIPTIVE and Don’t use “silly” topic names
PLEASE post a descriptive topic name! Give a short summary of your problem IN THE SUBJECT. (Don’t use attention getting subjects, they don’t get attention and only annoy people).
Here is a good example of a way to post a question
“My client needs advice on COBRA RULES, who’s an expert?” or “Can anyone consult on the topic of Medicare Advantage?”
Remember when people help you, they are doing YOU a favor
Be patient, help people out by posting good descriptions of what you need help with, and not snapping at people with garbage such as: “if you aren’t going to help don’t waste my time replying”.
Member Best Practices: What Not To Do
1. No Spam / Advertising in the forums
These forums define spam as unsolicited advertisement for goods, services and/or other web sites, or posts with little, or completely unrelated content. Sharing of local events, resources, meeting info is generally acceptable. Your account will be temporarily suspended and reviewed and your post(s) will be deleted /unpublished.
2. Do not post copyright-infringing material
Providing or asking for information on how to illegally obtain copyrighted materials is forbidden.
3. Do not post “offensive” posts, links or images
Any material which constitutes defamation, harassment, or abuse is strictly prohibited. Material that is sexually or otherwise obscene, racist, or otherwise overly discriminatory is not permitted on these forums. This includes user pictures. Use common sense while posting. This is a web site for accountancy professionals.
4. Do not cross post questions
Please refrain from posting the same question in several forums. There is normally one forum which is most suitable in which to post your question.
5. Remain respectful of other members at all times
All posts should be professional and courteous. You have every right to disagree with your fellow community members and explain your perspective. However, you are not free to attack, degrade, insult, or otherwise belittle them or the quality of this community. It does not matter what title or power you hold in these forums, you are expected to obey this rule.
Becoming a moderator
All moderator applicants must be a HelpMeSusan.Org member for at least 90 days (3 months) and have at least 50 posts. You must be active in the individual forums you wish to moderate and regularly create and respond to threads in those forums. You must also maintain a working knowledge of the subject matter. Please be aware that applying to be a moderator does not guarantee acceptance and that moderators will only be appointed when needed. We keep a tight ship at HelpMeSusan.Org Current moderators and administrators will review applications and decide if the applicant fits the desired post. Administrators have the final say and we reserve to right to refuse applicants with or without cause.
Moderator Policy
In Order To Apply To Be A Moderator You Must be:
- A forum regular
- Have been at the forum for over 3 months have a positive presence on HelpMeSusan Forums
- Be proactive
- Knowledgeable in the Forums they would like to moderate.
- Polite and helpful towards other members and give advice whenever needed and whenever possible.
- Visit the forum each day, actively take part in discussions as often as possible, ideally once a day, setting a good example to the other members.
- Take an active part in discussions between Moderators relating to the running of the forum.
- Help to keep unsuitable content out of the forums as much as possible.