Read before you ask

Everybody learns by asking questions, but asking questions without first looking for an answer on your own can brand you as an amateur. And amateur standing won't help your business prospects.

When you have a question about navigating the online world, participating in a discussion, or some other topic, spend a little time looking for a written answer. The answers to nearly every common Net-related question is stored in an FAQ (Frequently Asked Question) file somewhere, and online services have large help files that answer common questions as well.

Even if you're unable to find an answer, being able to say you tried will keep you from looking like a clueless newbie when you finally post a message asking for help.