I think the main reason for this lack of courtesy is because the internet is a place where people have come to expect instant information for free.
Kara and Penard mentioned their frustration recently and they are wholly right. The core members here are polite, friendly and courteous and we should accept nothing less from new members.
As I was thinking of this I began to think what I/we could offer as a thank you (before you get excited I have no money).
Many organisations and institutes have membership grades that are recognised within their industry or profession. I myself am a member of the Chartered Quality Institute. The CQI have various grades of membership rising in seniority e.g. associate, member, fellow etc. New members start out as associate member and then progress through the ranks (if they want to) by way of examinations or demonstrating experience, or a combination of the two.
As well as receiving a copy of the magazine and the opportunity to network with like minded people for your industry you also get a nice certificate and some letters to put on your CV or resume.
I just wanted to run this idea past members for your views on whether we should or could do something like this. I’m not sure what or how, but I just wanted to get members views on this.
Regards,
Simon