by Carol Gioia

Created on: April 08, 2009

When a Helium article is outstanding and praiseworthy, we have no problem communicating our approval to the writer. Positive comments are generally well- received and often make the writer's day. It is when we notice a shortcoming in content, or infraction in grammar or spelling, that effective communication becomes important.

There are four ways to communicate with other Helium members regarding their articles: Through rating, flagging, the Contact the Writer function and Peer Critique in the open forum. Each option has specific protocol and all have some communication etiquette in common.

* Rating

By participating in the rating process, we are communicating our opinion. Effectively rating, by reading each article presented and choosing which one of each pair best fulfills the writer guidelines of Helium, and rating that article "more" is a passive, but appropriate way to voice our approval, or disapproval, to the writer about his article.

* Flagging

Often, in the process of rating, we will come across an article that needs help in one area of another, and we might be inclined to notify the writer of what appears to be an oversight. Flagging is a limited, but sometimes timely and effective way to do this. There are approximately 83 characters in the flagging box, so comments must be concise. An example of an effect comment is, "The word _____ is misspelled in this otherwise good article." Another example: "Remove your name to avoid self-promotion and enhance rating." Flagging comments directly to the writer only works for practical tips regarding minor infractions.

* Contact the writer option

For comments of praise, or lengthy critiques, the Contact the Writer option is a better choice. Praise is self-explanatory, and a thoughtful and considerate thing to do for another writer.

Critique requires tact and diplomacy. By leading off your comments with positive remarks and then adding the infractions to be corrected will ensure the writer will not become offended or incensed by your message. Here is an example of a well-intentioned critique: "Your article__________ is well thought out and presented. I enjoyed reading it. I did notice, however, that your opening is weak and this good article deserves a stronger beginning. I also noticed a misspelled word in the second paragraph. I offer these comments to be helpful in order that you might enhance your rating on this good article."

Most writers will appreciate the assistance. In the event a writer is offended or angry, it

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