I'm so glad to see this message as it actually speaks to a personal dilemma I've pondered, i.e., I've never been entirely clear as to the proper protocol or etiquette as regards responses to individuals that contribute advice in a forum. I always appreciate hearing a response and usually give one, but sometimes I don't, being plagued with some doubt as to whether it's welcomed by others. (I'm not proud of that, but it's an honest self-assessment).(posted 8922 days ago)In the "real" world I would never neglect to thank someone, as it is so rude to not do so, and the guilt would frankly plague me (it's just not how I was raised). But "real" world standards of behavior are so frequently ignored in forums (I can't imagine that a lot of posters speak to people in person in the same condescending or offensive manner of their post responses). I honestly have wondered if I would be considered to be spamming someone by sending an e-mail thank you. Neurotic, maybe, but frankly, I've been flamed on-line for a lot less.
Anyway, many thanks, Nigel, for posting this and clearing my muddled thinking. I resolve to henceforth unfailingly thank contributors! Or at least the polite ones ;).