The Top 30 Netiquette Rules: How Not to Be That Person Online

We’ve all had that moment online. You hit send—and immediately regret it. Whether it’s a misunderstood joke in an email thread or accidentally replying-all to a 200-person listserv, navigating the digital world can feel like walking a tightrope. That’s where netiquette rules comes in.

Think of it as table manners—but for the internet.

What Is Netiquette?

Netiquette is basically the common sense of the internet—but with a bit of grace sprinkled on top. It’s the “don’t be a jerk” guideline for anything you type, post, or comment online. Imagine you’re talking to someone face-to-face—would you say it that way? Would you overshare? Would you shout your opinion in ALL CAPS? Probably not (or at least, hopefully not). That’s what netiquette helps with: keeping things respectful, thoughtful, and not accidentally starting a digital riot just because your tone didn’t land right. It’s like wearing deodorant for your online presence—nobody sees it, but everyone appreciates it.

Why Do You Think Netiquette Rules Are Important?

Because, let’s face it, nobody wants to deal with an internet troll at 9 a.m. while sipping their first coffee. Netiquette makes the online space safer, cleaner, and way less exhausting. It:

• Keeps communication professional
• Reduces misunderstandings
• Builds better online communities
• Helps avoid epic PR disasters (just ask anyone who tweeted before thinking)

For businesses, especially those working remotely or with virtual teams, it’s mission-critical. Even companies like BestCFO that manage financial operations virtually rely on strong digital communication etiquette to keep things professional, transparent, and productive.

Are Netiquette Rules a Must?

Absolutely. Think of them like traffic signals. Sure, you could ignore them—but do you want to risk the crash? Netiquette keeps digital conversations flowing smoothly and ensures everyone arrives at the same destination: being understood.

What Are the Top 30 Netiquette Rules?

Let’s break them down one-by-one, with a smile and a healthy dose of online reality.

1. Think Before You Post or Send

Pause. Reread. Then decide if you really want your grandma, your boss, and your future self to see this. If not, maybe just… don’t.

2. Respect Others’ Privacy

Just because someone shared it with you doesn’t mean it’s shareable with the world. Respect DMs. Respect emails. Respect group chats.

3. Use Clear and Professional Language

Online messages don’t come with tone indicators. Clarity is kindness.

4. Be Respectful and Courteous

Being behind a screen isn’t a free pass to be rude. If you wouldn’t say it face-to-face, don’t type it.

5. Avoid Trolling and Flame Wars

Trolling is not a personality. Flame wars waste time. Scroll on or agree to disagree.

6. Do Not Spam

No one needs seventeen follow-ups, three “just checking ins,” and your blog link posted everywhere. Seriously.

7. Stay on Topic

If it’s a conversation about Q2 revenue, don’t derail it with your pet’s TikTok success (save that for happy hour Zoom).

8. Use Proper Grammar and Punctuation

You’re not writing a novel, but avoid sounding like a robot malfunctioning mid-sentence.

9. Acknowledge and Credit Sources

Borrowed ideas or images? Give credit. It’s the digital equivalent of not stealing someone’s lunch.

10. Respect Time and Attention

Long-winded messages that take 15 minutes to decode? Not cool. Be concise.

11. Keep Group Chats Relevant

Think: “Is this useful to everyone in this group?” If not, keep it 1-on-1.

12. Do Not Overshare

Save the deep dives into your medical history or love life for a more private forum—or therapy.

13. Use Subject Lines Wisely

“Quick question” is the subject line equivalent of “we need to talk.” Be specific.

14. Avoid ALL CAPS

It’s the digital version of shouting. Don’t yell at your keyboard.

15. Be Inclusive

Use language that includes everyone. It’s about creating space, not shutting people out.

16. Understand the Platform’s Culture

Reddit isn’t LinkedIn. WhatsApp isn’t Slack. Know your digital vibe.

17. Don’t Hijack Threads

It’s not about you—unless it’s your post.