Let's Put the Professionalism back in Gracious Professionalism

[JaneYoung]

ok, I've asked some questions to which Katy graciously responded and I've had some time to think about this. This response may go long.

Initial thoughts before understanding the concerns of the OP were along these lines -
there are several programs that are represented in CD
there are many teams represented in CD, though not all FIRST teams are represented or represented equally
there are teams represented by students, mentors, parents - either individually or mixed
there are individuals that post in CD that are not affiliated with teams but have interest in FIRST, support the programs, and often volunteer at the events
there is a wide variety of age groups represented in CD. I know 14 year olds and I know folks in their mid-70s.
there are teams represented that have corporate sponsors and there are teams who fund raise year round, piecing the money together to compete
there are members of teams that post in CD from all over the world

Our diversity goes on and on. The common interest is FIRST.
We use written language to communicate in CD. If we are careful with our posts, giving them some forethought and consideration before we hit 'send' - we can often minimize misunderstandings and rudeness which are reflections of unprofessional behavior and actions.

To those who fear posting in ChiefDelphi - take a deep breath of courage and post. It can be intimidating, listening to so many strong opinions. One thing that I have learned by being involved in the robotics programs, is that engineers are not wishy washy people. They see things very clearly and they state things very clearly. Students who are drawn to science, engineering, and technology can do this as well. This can create a fora filled with very strong viewpoints and opinions. There is nothing wrong with that. What is wrong is what Katy has stated and it is how we present viewpoints and opinions. That is where care and respect for the topic and each other enters in.

This is also true in chat rooms, in person at competitions, in the classroom, in the shop - everywhere. Gracious Professionalism isn't something you don like a coat or a hat, it is a way of conducting yourself as an individual, as a team, as a group.

All you members out there that are afraid to post - you may be holding on to a kernel of wisdom that no one else has thought of. You may have a viewpoint that is worthy of exploring. If you keep it to yourself, we'll never know. And if someone is rude or pops off a critical post - what is the worst that can happen? Build a little tougher skin.

Let's build better skills in communication.

Jane