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Want Help? Some things to keep in mind when asking
In the recent past I have recieved MANY requests for me to help with various linux related problems. I don't have a problem with helping people, I LOVE teaching, and people have said that I'm good at it.What I have a problem with is when people don't give me the appreciation or respect I deserve for this help, when I am taken for granted and used to answer every question because someone just wants to be lazy.
So I have written up this list of rules that I ask people to follow when coming to me for help.
1. If you want my help, ask nicely then hang around so I can help you. DON'T go into 345 chat rooms asking other people the same thing so you can come back in time to see that all the work I've done for you is useless because you already found the solution.
2. Sure I'll help with windows where I can, but if your trouble has to do with a virus you got for a stupid reason (not scanning with antivirus software, using kazaa, etc), don't bother asking me to help.
3. Always, ALWAYS do a google search for your trouble first.
Of course if you are are a total newbie I'll excuse this, since it's sometimes difficult to find help for things that seasoned users take for granted (and sometimes you dont know enough about the context of the problem to search for it).
By using google you not only prove to me that you can fix a problem yourself (I REALLY respect that), but you look much smarter if you only ask questions you are really stumped on. (I've said in the past that success with *nix is directly proportional to your ability to use a search engine, it's quite true)
4. If I am going to take the time to help you, you better be willing to take the time as well. I don't appreciate it when people want me to help, but complain and don't want to take the time to fix something, I am not willing to admin your box for you unless you pay me (I charge $125/hour).
5. It's always on MY TIME. Don't expect me to come online when it's "easiest for you" I am the one spending time helping you, that's sacrifice enough. You come online when I'm here, if that's impossible then you just have to deal with through email/journal/message board help when I get to it.
Again I must stress that I do love to help people, just give me some respect for the time I spend on your behalf, don't waste it %)